Red Bull Reviewing Strategy After Missing Verstappen Undercut in Austria

Red Bull will review its race strategy after Max Verstappen narrowly missed victory at the Austrian Grand Prix, finishing 1.6 seconds behind George Russell despite having the pace to win. Team principal Laurent Mekies admitted the team must evaluate whether failing to undercut Russell cost them the race.

Why it matters:

The RB22 showed genuine race-winning speed for the first time this season, marking a significant breakthrough for a team chasing the leaders. Verstappen carved through the field from fifth after a qualifying crash and was closing on Russell with 20 laps remaining, yet Red Bull opted for a conservative pit strategy. Turning this improved pace into victories is now essential if they are to remain in championship contention.

The details:

• Verstappen sat just 1.3 seconds behind Russell before the final stops, but Red Bull kept him out six laps longer rather than attempting an undercut.
• Mekies confirmed the team will analyze whether pitting earlier could have secured the win, though Mercedes might have used Kimi Antonelli as a strategic buffer.
• The team principal credited Milton Keynes for unlocking over a second of pace delta recently, calling the turnaround "very impressive" while warning that rivals will keep bringing updates.
• Verstappen's fifth-place grid slot followed a Turn 9 qualifying shunt that Red Bull took responsibility for, forcing him to recover ground he ultimately couldn't fully overcome.

What's next:

Encouraged by the RB22's performance but aware that speed alone isn't enough, Red Bull knows sharper strategic execution will be vital. With the season still unfolding and development continuing, converting this newfound pace into wins is the immediate priority for Mekies and Verstappen.