David Coulthard explains what Max Verstappen and Perez told him after Red Bull shakedown.

David Coulthard has revealed that Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez informed him that there were ‘no surprises’ with the RB20 during Red Bull’s shakedown session at Silverstone. The reigning world champions have made some drastic changes to their World Championship-winning car ahead of the 2024 season.

Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez are looking to retain both World Championships in 2024.

Red Bull were a dominant force during the 2023 campaign, winning 21 out of a possible 22 Grands Prix as Verstappen cruised to a third successive Drivers’ Championship crown. Therefore, heading into car launch season, few expected the Milton Keynes-based outfit to reveal major alterations to their design.

However, when the curtain was lifted and the RB20 was revealed to the world last Thursday, the new car seemed to take inspiration from the past two Mercedes challengers. Adrian Newey’s latest production featured sidepod inlets and engine cooling gulleys that were reminiscent of the W14.

Coulthard discussed with F1.com regarding the feedback from Verstappen and Perez following the session, mentioning that they observed the car performed as expected in those specific conditions without any unexpected incidents. “The technical team seemed satisfied with the data they were receiving on aspects such as cooling and load sensors.

Despite any positive impressions during the car shakedown, what truly counts are the qualifying session on Saturday and the race on Sunday in Bahrain.”

“It is the initial version being launched, with expected upgrades to be made to the test before the final day.

There may even be an upgrade scheduled for the Friday of the Bahrain race, all of which are anticipated to impact performance, balance, and lap times.”

Even though Red Bull showed improvements during the winter, Coulthard remains cautious about potential challenges from other teams in 2024.

“I can’t predict the future, but it is evident that Ferrari had a competitive car in terms of qualifying speed last season,” he added. “If they have made advancements in addressing the issues that hindered their race pace, they will be a strong competitor.”

“Towards the end of the year, Mercedes made significant progress, while McLaren started at the back in Bahrain but were near the front in Abu Dhabi, showing significant improvement throughout the year.”