F1 News

2019 changes have cost Red Bull $15 million

2019 changes have cost Red Bull $15 million

24-01-2019 10:56
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Red Bull boss, Helmut Marko believes making changes to the front wings and bargeboards for the 2019 season was done mainly for the benefit of Mercedes and it has already hit the Red Bull team by a whopping $15 million.

The changes are designed to make following cars easier which ultimately makes overtaking easier, hopefully leading to better and more competitive racing.

However, Red Bull were one of the biggest critics of the changes due to a lack of data to help the alterations as well as the financial implications it would have.

“We have the same [aerodynamic] data as last summer,” Marko told Motorsport.

“By the time we get to Melbourne we'll probably be better than that.

“[But] there is now a good basis for discussion between Mercedes, Ferrari and us.

“We agree that regulations must not be determined by technicians.

“As soon as technicians are involved, the costs increase and everything becomes complicated.

“We are $15 million poorer,” Marko added.

Marko also believes the changes are being implemented to help double champions for the last five years, Mercedes.

“[The rule change was] mainly done on the initiative of Mercedes.

“Everyone can see how difficult it is for Mercedes to overtake when they are behind [another car],” Marko said.