
Sun Sep 15 16:53:00 UTC 2024: ## Red Bull Left Empty-Handed in Baku as Unfortunate Incidents Derail Race
The Azerbaijan Grand Prix delivered a bitter blow to Red Bull Racing, as both drivers, Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez, suffered setbacks that cost them vital points in both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships.
Verstappen, who started fourth, struggled with the car’s balance throughout the race. “We had some issues with the balance and the car was jumping around a lot,” he admitted. He encountered further problems after a pit stop, getting stuck behind Lando Norris and Alex Albon, impacting his race and tyre life. While he ultimately finished fifth, he acknowledged that changes made before qualifying had backfired, ultimately costing him a better result.
Perez, meanwhile, was on course for a potential victory before a collision with Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz on lap 40 ended his race prematurely. “The last person I wanted to have contact with is Carlos,” said a disappointed Perez, who felt he had enough space exiting turn two before Sainz moved aggressively towards him.
Team Principal Christian Horner described the incident as “very unlucky” for Perez, who had been in a strong position to win. “It looked like Carlos drifted to the left-hand side of the track and there was contact which caused a huge amount of damage.” While both drivers were unharmed, the collision lost Red Bull crucial points in both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships.
Despite the disappointing result, both Red Bull drivers and the team remain determined to bounce back. “We are going to work together as a Team and the fight is not over,” said Verstappen. “We won’t give up.”
The focus now shifts to the upcoming races, where Red Bull will be aiming to regain momentum and fight for victories.