Racing Bulls Clarifies Driver Comments on the 2025 VCARB 02
Racing Bulls has recently addressed comments made by its drivers regarding the 2025 VCARB 02 car being ‘easier to drive’ in comparison to the RB21 from Red Bull Racing. This topic arose following statements from prominent drivers, including Max Verstappen, Yuki Tsunoda, and Liam Lawson, who expressed their challenges in handling the RB21. In contrast, the response from Racing Bulls’ drivers regarding their vehicle has been notably different.
Insights from the Drivers
Liam Lawson, who has had the opportunity to drive both the RB21 and the VCARB 02 this season—having participated in the first two Grands Prix for the main team—shared his observations about the significant differences between the two cars. During discussions surrounding Lawson’s initial struggles with the Red Bull, Verstappen noted that the Racing Bulls car appeared to be more manageable. He remarked, “That car is easier to drive than ours,” highlighting a contrast in the driving experience between the two vehicles.
Understanding the Design Philosophy
Alan Permane, the newly appointed head of Racing Bulls, provided further clarification about the VCARB 02’s design and performance capabilities. According to Permane, the VCARB 02 is not inherently easier to drive but has been engineered to allow for quick adjustments that optimize its aerodynamic performance. This adaptability is what contributes to the perception of the car being ‘easier’ to handle. “What makes it easier is our ability to quickly adjust the setup and extract maximum performance from the car, providing a more balanced feel for the drivers,” he explained.
The Role of Engineering in Performance
Permane elaborated on the engineering aspects that influence the car’s performance. “There has been a lot of talk about it being an easy-to-drive car, but what’s truly happening is that it’s easy for engineers to tune it for optimal aerodynamic performance,” he said. This flexibility allows the team to make necessary adjustments to enhance the car’s performance, resulting in a better driving experience for the racers.
Versatility Across Different Circuits
Despite not being categorically easy to drive, the VCARB 02 has proven to be a versatile and efficient vehicle across various circuit types. Permane noted that the car has performed admirably on multiple tracks, including Spa, Hungary, Barcelona, and Austria. “It seems to do well everywhere,” he added, emphasizing the car’s adaptability to different racing conditions.
Championship Battle
Currently, Racing Bulls is engaged in a tight battle for sixth place in the championship standings, competing closely with teams like Aston Martin and Sauber. They are just six points ahead of their rivals as the season enters a break. The team has also been drawing attention for the strong performances of its drivers, particularly Isack Hadjar, who secured sixth place in the Monaco Grand Prix, and Lawson, who matched that finish in Austria.
Conclusion
As Racing Bulls continues to navigate the competitive landscape of Formula 1, the insights shared by its drivers and leadership about the VCARB 02 offer a glimpse into the complexities of car performance and driver experience. Through engineering excellence and adaptability, the team aims to maintain its competitive edge and push for success in the remainder of the season.
