Mercedes ace Lewis Hamilton has weighed in on Red Bull’s 2024 Formula 1 car following its performance during three days of pre-season testing.
Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez hit the track in Sakhir after the lengthy winter hiatus, showcasing a significantly revamped car that sparked much intrigue among observers.
Hamilton, speaking post-test via The Athletic, succinctly shared his impressions on the RB20.
Red Bull’s 2023 season saw unparalleled dominance in Formula 1, clinching victory in 21 out of 22 Grand Prix races, with Verstappen leading the charge with 19 wins.
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Given this success, many anticipated only minor tweaks to the RB19.
However, Red Bull unveiled a substantially altered car, initially appearing a risky move.
Yet, Verstappen’s remarkable pace on day one of testing suggests the decision to opt for a distinct design, rather than an incremental evolution, may prove inspired, challenging the status quo set by rivals.
Hamilton, seeking his first win since 2021, has now shared his views on Red Bull’s 2024 challenger.
While the 39-year-old finished as the best of the rest in the 2023 Drivers’ Standings, he remained winless due to Red Bull’s supremacy.
This likely influenced his move to Ferrari in 2025, seeking a better shot at securing an eighth world title.
Asked about his take on Red Bull’s latest offering, Hamilton simply remarked they appeared ‘out in the distance’ compared to his Mercedes.
Reports indicate Red Bull’s design maestro, Adrian Newey, is particularly impressed with a specific aspect of Hamilton’s 2024 Mercedes.
While this may offer a slight edge, the overall package of the RB20 seems formidable.
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Perez faced reliability issues during the Bahrain test, offering rivals a glimmer of hope for the 2024 season.
Nonetheless, the true extent of the car’s potential likely remains untapped.
The qualifying performance of Verstappen or Perez will provide a clearer indication of Red Bull’s early-season dominance.