Suzuka, Japan: Racing Bulls emerged as a surprise contender during Friday’s practice sessions at the Japanese Grand Prix, outperforming their Red Bull counterparts. Isack Hadjar impressed with a third-place finish, closely followed by teammate Liam Lawson in fifth. This unexpected performance put them ahead of Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, who finished in eighth place, and Yuki Tsunoda in 18th.
Despite Racing Bulls’ strong showing, team boss Laurent Mekies remained cautious, acknowledging the challenging conditions and multiple red flags that impacted the session. The close margins between competitors highlighted the competitive nature of the field, emphasizing the need for a balanced perspective on the day’s results. Mekies emphasized the importance of not reading too much into the lap times, given the unpredictable nature of the practice session.
The Racing Bulls’ improved performance can be attributed to their car’s characteristics, which provide a more stable and driver-friendly platform. The team’s efforts to address inconsistencies from the previous season have paid off, allowing drivers like Hadjar and Lawson to push their limits confidently. Tsunoda praised the car’s improved balance and handling compared to the previous year, noting the team’s significant progress in addressing rear instability.
The team’s setup approach tailored to rookies has further enhanced their performance, providing a solid foundation for drivers to excel. The challenging weather conditions at Suzuka, characterized by gusty winds, played to Racing Bulls’ strengths, allowing their drivers to maintain a competitive edge. Mekies emphasized the need to remain cautious and adaptable, as changing wind conditions could impact the team’s setup strategy for the upcoming days.
Overall, Racing Bulls’ impressive performance on Friday serves as a positive start to the Japan weekend. However, the team remains aware of the uncertainties ahead, with forecasts predicting a significant shift in wind direction. Adapting to changing conditions will be crucial for maintaining their competitive edge throughout the Grand Prix weekend. Racing Bulls are optimistic about their baseline performance and are prepared to make necessary adjustments to optimize their car’s balance and performance.