Max Verstappen was forced to return his car to the pit lane early during the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix. A brake problem caused a wrench to come into play and cause a DNF. It now appears that the cause of the problem is known F1 inside Reports suggest this has reinforced Verstappen's mistrust of team boss Christian Horner.
Verstappen started the race at Albert Park from pole position, but was overtaken by Ferrari's Carlos Sainz on the second lap. After only two laps, it was over for Verstappen, because due to a problem with his brakes, his car started to smoke and flames erupted. The world champion was forced to return his car to the penalty area and withdraw from the race. It was a major reversal, although Verstappen remained relatively quiet about it. It soon became clear that the problem was with the brakes, but the exact cause remains to be investigated. This sounds familiar now, because… F1 inside He learned what could cause a brake problem.
Read more: “Ricciardo has no deadline for Miami, Lawson knows nothing”
An incorrectly tightened screw caused a problem
Although the issue is essentially minor and could easily be prevented next time, there are rumors that Verstappen's DNF has put further strain on his relationship with Horner. Rather, it is hinted here and there that there may be an intention. “Verstappen's failure during last Sunday's Australian Grand Prix has reinforced Verstappen's distrust towards the unpopular team boss. [Horner, red.]”, it can be read. “An incorrectly tightened bolt could have caused the brakes of the Red Bull car with starting number 1 to fail.”
Read more: “Red Bull Racing and Fernando Alonso in advanced stages for 2025”
The DNF came at the “worst possible time” for Verstappen
The article continues with the fact that Verstappen's retirement is not very appropriate for the current situation and tensions within the team. “Although it was probably just a coincidence.” [de uitvalbeurt, red.]The mediator said: “The mistake came at the worst possible time due to the emotionally tense situation in the team.”
