Exploring the Underbodies of Racing Bulls in Baku
The Racing Bulls Formula 1 team has been on a rollercoaster ride this season with their underbody developments. After a significant update at the beginning of the season in Miami that propelled them towards the top of the midfield, the team has faced challenges with subsequent upgrades. The underbody introduced in Spain did not perform as expected, and the latest update in Monza has left some lingering questions unanswered.
With five different underbody specifications introduced in 2024, Racing Bulls is still searching for the clear number one choice in their development process. Driver Daniel Ricciardo will be testing the Monza underbody during the upcoming practice session in Azerbaijan, while his teammate Yuki Tsunoda will be trying out an older version.
When asked why he was not opting for the new underbody, Tsunoda explained, „There seem to be several reasons, aside from just the underbody. We still need to fully understand it because the data is there, but at the same time, I didn’t feel like the data was translating to performance on track. It was clear that I had issues [in Monza].“
Tsunoda further added, „I have now switched to a more standard underbody, and I am curious to see how I feel in the car with it and how it performs. Depending on which one generates the better lap time, I will make my decision. If his car is better, then I will switch back. But if mine works well, I will stick with my underbody.“
Baku as a Standout Track for Racing Bulls
Despite the underbody challenges, the Baku City Circuit is expected to be a favorable track for Racing Bulls. The team’s strength has traditionally been in slow corners, which are abundant in Baku. Over the past three years, the Faenza-based team has consistently scored points in Azerbaijan, with Pierre Gasly even achieving a podium finish in 2021.
Tsunoda acknowledged, „I think historically the track usually suits our car well. The expectations are high because this season has been very tight, with some cars and teams performing well on certain tracks and others not, which could also happen with our car.“
Ricciardo, who won the race in Baku in 2018 with Red Bull, expressed his anticipation for the upcoming event. „I didn’t race here last year, so it’s another track that I’m very excited about. It’s a race where you can try anything. It’s a race where we, especially in the midfield, can be optimistic that we can achieve a special result on a track like this.“
He added, „But primarily, it’s about the updates. We will try to implement them tomorrow, get to know the track, get a feel for it, and hopefully, we will be in a good position by Sunday afternoon.“
Analysis of Racing Bulls‘ Underbody Strategies
The evolution of Racing Bulls‘ underbodies throughout the season reflects the team’s commitment to finding the optimal setup for their cars. With each new specification introduced, the drivers have had to adapt their driving styles to maximize performance on track.
The decision to test different underbody versions during practice sessions allows the team to gather valuable data and feedback from the drivers. This information is crucial in determining which configuration is most effective in terms of handling, aerodynamics, and overall speed.
Tsunoda’s approach of switching back to a more familiar underbody for the upcoming race in Baku highlights the importance of driver confidence in the equipment they are using. While performance data is essential, the driver’s comfort and trust in the car can also significantly impact their on-track performance.
Ricciardo’s experience and success at the Baku City Circuit provide valuable insights for the Racing Bulls team as they prepare for the upcoming race. His previous victories on the track demonstrate the potential for success with the right setup and strategy in place.
In conclusion, the ongoing exploration of underbody configurations by Racing Bulls underscores the continuous development and refinement required in Formula 1. As the team navigates the challenges of finding the perfect setup, their performance in Baku will serve as a test of their adaptability and resilience in the competitive world of motorsport.
