Red Bull Cite Ride-Height Problem as Cause for Verstappen’s Qualifying Time Loss
Max Verstappen recorded an unexpected time deficit during qualifying at the Mexico City Grand Prix, finishing fifth instead of challenging for pole. According to Red Bull Racing’s motorsport advisor Helmut Marko, the main issue was the car’s ride height in certain sectors of the track. Marko revealed the RB21 had been set “a little above the limit” for the second sector, where understeer and loss of grip were most evident.
Verstappen had reported a lack of grip all weekend, and the team observed he lost approximately five-tenths of a second in each of two high-speed corners. Onboard footage captured the car snapping while changing direction, indicative of the imbalance. Red Bull raised the car’s height as a race-day strategy to ensure better tyre durability and stability under full fuel load, but that set-up compromised qualifying pace. Marko admitted this trade-off may cost them during the race, where tyre wear is expected to be decisive.
Tyre Times’ View:
This incident offers a reminder that even top-tier teams can face subtle set-up compromises that impact performance. Optimising ride height is closely linked to tyre performance, aerodynamic balance, and vehicle stability. For summer or high-altitude tracks like Mexico City, the correct tyre and suspension set-up becomes crucial. Observers in the tyre industry should see this as another example of how set-up decisions affect tyre behaviour on the track and ultimately influence product testing and development.
