Japanese GP 2024: New Upgrades for RB May Bring Pace Improvement for Struggling Daniel Ricciardo

The Racing Bulls team had a disappointing start to the 2024 Formula 1 season scoring only 6 points so far. The VCARB01 car, expected to perform well after a strong finish in 2023, faced challenges in the first races of the season. Daniel Ricciardo is in the middle of all this, making no contributions towards the points, and the team has had it.

Besides that, the team encountered technical problems with the new car, including cooling issues and problems with internal aerodynamics. These problems emerged even before the official testing period began, requiring adjustments to be made to the car’s design. With the team providing such a car to the Australian, things are getting more difficult with rumors of him being benched during the Suzuka Free Practice. So, what is VCARB doing about this? And where does Daniel Ricciardo stand?

VCARB’s rebranding revision

Although the team has changed their name, the car is still taking inspiration from last year’s AlphaTauri car. To fix this, the team plans to introduce significant updates to the VCARB01 at the Suzuka Grand Prix. This includes the introduction of a new specification, particularly a new floor, aimed at improving performance and reducing ties to the previous AT04 car.

Despite the initial setbacks, Racing Bulls worked to address the issues with the VCARB01. Engineers focused on reducing drag and weight while improving aerodynamic efficiency, introducing a new medium-load rear wing during the Australian Grand Prix. The team aims to gradually enhance the car’s performance throughout the season. The introduction of updates in Suzuka marks the first step, with further revisions planned for the Imola Grand Prix.

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The team’s drivers, particularly Daniel Ricciardo, faced difficulties adapting to the new car’s requirements.

Where does Daniel Ricciardo stand ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix?

About Ricciardo’s performance, Jody Egginton, the Technical Chief of Racing Bulls, said, “Daniel’s weekend wasn’t easy. However, he lowered his head and worked very hard together with his engineers to make the car closer to his tastes. Even if the result doesn’t show it, there are some good signs of progress.”

The upcoming races, particularly the Suzuka Grand Prix, present Daniel Ricciardo with an opportunity to redeem himself and showcase his skills behind the wheel. His absence from FP1 at Suzuka, where Ayumu Iwasa is said to replace him, signified a strategic move by the team to explore potential setup adjustments and gather valuable data for improvement.

In the middle of all this, the 34-year-old has a lot to prove; otherwise, it might be time for him to pack up his bags and step off the grid. Considering there is fresh talent like Liam Lawson and Oliver Bearman ready to get into the pace of F1, this might be his last shot to show that he deserves a seat. Although his career has been on the decline, it is up to him alone to fix things for himself.

Considering that VCARB is getting an upgrade for their cars with every race, do you think Daniel Ricciardo will be able to take advantage of that yet? With that said, do you think he is under threat of leaving the grid? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

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