Over the past two seasons, Max Verstappen and company have enjoyed an unparalleled level of dominance in the circus. However, the scenario has completely changed in 2024. Now, Ferrari and McLaren have caught up and are hot on their heels. Faced with this reality, the championship leader has drawn a new baseline for his team for the rest of the season.
As quoted by RacingNews365, speaking about the level of competition, he confessed that there is no margin for error. Verstappen said: “It’s definitely more challenging. And I think also, of course, how the race (the Canadian Grand Prix) went, it was very exciting overall. And it definitely keeps us on our toes. We can no longer afford to make mistakes or small mistakes. So yes, every little detail matters now.”
Charles Leclerc believes that Red Bull’s strengths will be “more visible” at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya
The Ferrari driver believes that Red Bull could recover from its recent problems in Spain.#F1 pic.twitter.com/vnWiqlA9m9
— Autosport (@autosport) June 17, 2024
The margin of error has been reduced to zero for the reigning champions. In fact, there will be times when the Dutchman will have to tip the scales in his favor with individual brilliance. That’s exactly how the Red Bull man got the win in Canada, because the RB20 wasn’t the fastest car on the track.
In fact, Mercedes was the surprise leader at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. McLaren was right behind them and Ferrari suffered a rare down weekend with double DNFs. The pressure is real, with three teams chasing the first, which will change depending on the track. That is precisely why the next treble is crucial.
Max Verstappen and company need to maximize results in the next triplet
The circus will travel to three destinations in the next three weeks for its first tripleheader. All upcoming races will be held at the traditional circuits of Barcelona, Spielberg and Silverstone. These are the circuits where the RB20 feels most comfortable and the current champion can shine.
The three-time champion can increase his chances of getting his fourth with the results of these races. With a lead of 56 points at the moment over the runners-up, he can extend this lead even further. With perfect results at every track, Verstappen could be out of reach for the rest of the long season.
However, this will be easier said than done. In reaction to the Canadian GP setback, Ferrari is bringing improvements for the Barcelona race. Although no one knows who will be the team to beat in the next race at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya and in the other two races.
