Red Bull has identified certain weaknesses in their collaboration with AlphaTauri, a process triggered by the Italian outfit’s recent struggles. Currently 10th in the standings, AlphaTauri’s performance is not acceptable to its parent team – who are taking action.
Helmut Marko first eluded to changes earlier in 2023, explaining that a new model was needed at Faenza. Simply put, Red Bull’s sister team should not be last in the standings – especially given the RB19’s speed.
The likes of Haas collaborate with Ferrari and take (within the regulations) the parts they deem necessary. This has not been the case at AlphaTauri.
Previously, in years such as 2020 or 2021, this was not a problem. After all, the Italy-based team was generally competitive in the midfield.
However, their performance has been increasingly worrying under the new F1 regulations. Helmut Marko explains the key changes Red Bull will implement:
“There were always differences between Italy and England,” he told the Young Economist.
“AlphaTauri sometimes had designers… who believed if they had the financial means of Red Bull, they would actually be better.
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – APRIL 01: Yuki Tsunoda of Japan driving the (22) Scuderia AlphaTauri AT04 makes a pitstop during qualifying ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Australia at Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit on April 01, 2023 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Peter Fox/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202304010178 // Usage for editorial use only //
“This conflict smouldered throughout this cooperation. That’s why it’s now being restructured…
“There is a very clear instruction. Everything that is permitted by the regulations must be adapted by Red Bull.
“No more in-house constructions, no more peculiarities in Faenza. The synergies are to be used as best as possible.”
Other issues have been highlighted, such as the investment into AlphaTauri not reaping the necessary financial rewards.
This will lead to a new team name for 2024, with rumours suggesting interest from giants such as Hugo Boss – although nothing is confirmed.
All these factors, including the arrival of Laurent Mekies in place of Franz Tost, signify the beginning of a new era for Red Bull’s second team.
With next year’s driver lineup also unconfirmed, there are plenty of reasons to observe one of the most volatile teams in F1.
Author: Jaden Diaz-Ndisang
