Isack Hadjar says Red Bull need to improve their starts as the team looks to compete for victory again. The driver pointed to the issue ahead of the Mexico City Grand Prix after a slow getaway affected his race in Austin.
Hadjar qualified third in the United States, matching his best result in qualifying, but dropped down the order on the opening lap. A throttle problem also hampered his race, and he finished sixth. He said he was still frustrated, despite being pleased with Red Bull’s underlying pace.
The Frenchman also cited radio problems that made it difficult to manage the race. He said the team had experienced ups and downs with its starts and could not be sure how they would perform in Mexico, but would keep working to improve.
Red Bull team-mate Max Verstappen’s victories in Malaysia and Singapore have given Hadjar confidence in the team’s potential. However, he described Mexico as a different challenge, with a slippery track that can make the car slide. He also noted that the long run to the first corner could offer an opportunity to benefit from a tow.
Sources: Formula 1.