Red Bull reveal timeline for Macarena wing return

Reflecting on Red Bull's performance at the end of Friday's running, the team's technical director described the opening day as a solid starting point but admitted there is still significant work to do.

As for the so-called 'Macarena' wing, which has been shelved for this weekend following the two incidents in Austria and Silverstone, Red Bull's technical director explained that the decision was linked to a mechanical issue identified after the Silverstone crash.

He said the team has already found a solution and is strengthening the component to ensure it is completely reliable before reintroducing it, with the aim of having it ready again for the Hungarian Grand Prix. He also confirmed Red Bull has been in contact with the FIA throughout the process, while declining to reveal the exact modifications due to the wing's performance benefits.

Speaking after Friday's running about the gearshift issue he reported over the team radio, Verstappen played down any major concerns, insisting the RB22 had been operating in a good window throughout the day.

Addressing his frustrated radio messages, Verstappen explained he is particularly sensitive to gearshift behaviour and revealed the issue was linked to a software update. He added that the system gradually improved as the session progressed once the shifts had adapted.

The Dutchman also admitted the gap to the front in FP2 was a more realistic indication of Red Bull's pace, pointing to energy management and a straight-line deficit as the team's main limitations, while describing the overall balance as encouraging.