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'Red Bull not just lacking in engine department at Suzuka'

'Red Bull not just lacking in engine department at Suzuka'

19-10-2019 10:12
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Nicolás Quarles van Ufford

After their unfortunate but somewhat underwhelming outing in Japan, Aston Martin Red Bull Racing seem to not only be lacking in straight-line speed but also in the corners, as Auto Motor und Sport report.

In Honda's home race, Red Bull were expected to challenge for the win, as the engine manufacturer introduced their new Spec 4 engine to give the Bulls more power in the back of the RB15.

However, it didn't go to plan, with Max Verstappen's race effectively ending after two corners as Charles Leclerc drove into him, heavily damaging the car. Alexander Albon did well to take advantage of the duo dropping down the order as finished fourth.

No podium or win, though, in what should have been a statement race for both Honda as well as Red Bull. Auto Motor und Sport analyse where the RB15 was lacking compared to Ferrari and Mercedes.

"Honda had prepared enough fresh Spec 4 engines for Suzuka," the AMS report reads.

"Mobil 1 supplied a new fuel mix. It was the most powerful engine package Honda has put together since their comeback in 2015. Nevertheless, Red Bull lost eight-tenths to Ferrari on the straights and two to Mercedes."

This has been an issue for Honda and Red Bull, particularly since after the summer break. However, AMS also reported the downforce on the RB15 wasn't up to snuff compared to competitors.

"Red Bull's vulnerability shows up at the rear wing. It still is much smaller than the competition. This is because the RB15'a frontwing couldn't build enough downforce at Suzuka. This is only possible on tracks where you can bring the frontwing very close to the asphalt."