Red Bull identifies balance issues in RB22 during Mexico GP practice
2 sources • 2 min read • Latest: Oct 31, 2026, 12:00 PM
Last updated Oct 31, 2026
Red Bull Racing faced challenges during the first practice sessions for the Formula 1 Mexico Grand Prix on October 31, 2026. Max Verstappen ended the session in fifth place, three tenths off the fastest time, hampered by damage incurred in an incident with Liam Lawson, which resulted in both drivers receiving a one-place grid penalty. Verstappen noted that the high altitude at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez contributed to difficulties with grip and downforce under the new technical regulations. Technical director Pierre Wache highlighted a disconnect between the front and rear of the car as a key issue that needs addressing ahead of the race weekend. The team is focused on repairing the car and improving its setup for better performance in the upcoming sessions.
- •Max Verstappen finished fifth in practice, three tenths off the pace.
- •Verstappen received a grid penalty after an incident with Liam Lawson.
- •The team cites a disconnect in car balance as a primary concern.
- •Red Bull is focused on repairing damage and optimizing setup for qualifying.
- •Drivers are struggling with grip due to high altitude and track conditions.
- 12:00 PMYahoo Sports — Red Bull finds ‘disconnect’ in RB22 in F1 Mexico GP practice
- 12:00 PMMotorsport.com — Red Bull finds ‘disconnect’ in RB22 in F1 Mexico GP practice
"Red Bull admits it still has work to do after Friday's Formula 1 practice sessions in Mexico City. Max Verstappen ended the day fifth, three tenths off the pace, but that was despite damage sustained in an incident with Liam Lawson. Verstappen described the moment in the media pen as 'not very smart' from the Racing Bulls driver, given that Lawson is still fighting for his seat. The stewards ...Keep reading
"According to technical director Pierre Wache, there was a 'disconnect' between the front and rear of the Red Bull car during Friday practice; Verstappen adds that driving at Mexico's high altitude is 'not the most fun' under F1’s new regulations
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsOct 31, 2026, 12:00 PMRed Bull finds ‘disconnect’ in RB22 in F1 Mexico GP practice
According to technical director Pierre Wache, there was a 'disconnect' between the front and rear of the Red Bull car during Friday practice; Verstappen adds that driving at Mexico's high altitude is 'not the most fun' under F1’s new regulations
- Motorsport.comOct 31, 2026, 12:00 PMRed Bull finds ‘disconnect’ in RB22 in F1 Mexico GP practice
Red Bull admits it still has work to do after Friday's Formula 1 practice sessions in Mexico City. Max Verstappen ended the day fifth, three tenths off the pace, but that was despite damage sustained in an incident with Liam Lawson. Verstappen described the moment in the media pen as 'not very smart' from the Racing Bulls driver, given that Lawson is still fighting for his seat. The stewards ...Keep reading
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