Newey: Vettel must relearn how to drive the Red Bull
Following the evolution of F1 regulations, particularly regarding the loss of downforce generated by the cars, Adrian Newey explains that his favorite driver must relearn how to drive his car.
The 2014 season was mainly marked by the change of era in terms of engines, but this should not overshadow the evolution on the aerodynamic front with a reduction in downforce for the cars. With the loss of this downforce, Sebastian Vettel is struggling to regain his feelings.
Adrian Newey, Red Bull’s technical director, admits to journalist Adam Cooper that the German driver is struggling to adapt to the RB10. « Our driver has a very particular driving style; at the start of the season, the car did not suit him, and he struggled to get the most out of it. However, in the following Grand Prix, the car suited him better, and he became very effective. »
Adrian Newey explains to us that Sebastian Vettel’s driving must be focused on a new learning process « the blown diffuser cannot be replaced, but Sebastian Vettel must continue to learn the new sensations provided by the single-seater »
The technical director of Red Bull was, however, pleasantly surprised by Daniel Ricciardo’s ability to adapt: “He has been doing an extraordinary job since his first day,” he says. “In general, a driver who joins a new team needs some time to adapt, especially with Ricciardo’s limited experience. It can take a while to find one’s bearings, but this driver managed to adapt to the new regulations and the car; he is very strong!”
The engineer reviewed the regulatory changes and the leeway given to developments: « If we look at the developments over the first six Grand Prix, they are significantly fewer than last year. We have fewer and fewer possibilities; mostly, the developments for the 2013 season were aesthetic, and the regulations are blocking development. » Joe Bauer, FIA technical delegate, confirms the technician’s words: « We have never had as few crash tests as this year. »
