Christian Horner after qualifying ahead of the Formula 1 Grand Prix of Qatar at Lusail International Circuit in Lusail, Qatar on November 30, 2024. (Photo by Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Christian Horner revealed that Red Bull’s experimental approach with Sergio Perez’s car during the Qatar GP sprint race played a crucial role in turning around their performance for the main event. The Milton Keynes team CEO explained that they used the sprint as an opportunity to test setup adjustments, including increased downforce, which ultimately helped Max Verstappen secure pole position and claim victory.
After qualifying, both Red Bull drivers acknowledged that Perez’s car served as a testing ground to find the optimal setup for the challenging Lusail circuit. With limited free practice sessions available, the team experimented with heavier downforce and mechanical tweaks on the Mexican driver’s car. Unlike the more adaptable McLaren challenger, the RB20 has struggled with a narrow operating window this season, often resulting in inconsistent performances across different circuits.
