Red Bull reckons with the consequences of Verstappen's title fight

Red Bull Racing was in the race for the world title until the last minute and that could have implications for 2022. According to Christian Horner, his team is aware of the competitive advantage.

With new regulations for 2022, it was important for teams in 2021 to find a good balance. You don't want to throw 2021 away because it could cost you a lot of money, but on the other hand you don't want to start working on the 2022 car too late and end up starting the new era in F1 behind schedule.

Regulations for 2022

Teams that had nothing to win or lose in 2021 had an advantage in that respect. Haas and Alfa Romeo chose to abandon the 2021 car very early on, as did Ferrari and Aston Martin later in the season. Other teams had to continue their development.

In the battle for the world title Mercedes and Red Bull Racing couldn't let up. Where Mercedes announced halfway through the year that they were focussing on 2022, the development of the car and engine showed something else. Both teams couldn't let a title slip away and fought for every point on offer.

No worries at Horner

With a constructors' title for Mercedes and a title for Max Verstappen, both parties have received value for money, but the bill for this will be presented to them in 2022. In conversation with Motorsport.com Horner said that the team is expecting a big step up from the competition.

Still, Verstappen fans need not worry immediately, as the Red Bull Racing team boss also stated that the team has made considered decisions. They too have devoted attention and resources to the 2022 car and will also come up with their best possible concept. Of course, more time does not necessarily mean that other teams have also come up with a better design.