How Monza unveiled the real situation – Max Verstappen reacts to the FIA's unexpected ADUO decision

Following the race weekend in Zandvoort, the FIA has finally made public a confirmation that had been circulating within the paddock since the Monaco event: every manufacturer has received a token under Formula 1’s Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities framework, with the exception of Red Bull Ford Powertrains.

In the initial measurement period, the newcomer from Milton Keynes secured the top spot in the rankings with the most potent internal combustion engine in the field, a position that remained unchanged after the second measurement period concluded following the Hungarian Grand Prix.

The protracted delay in the public announcement is largely attributed to Red Bull’s dissatisfaction behind the scenes. The team has consistently sought clarification, with CEO Oliver Mintzlaff notably involved in the discussions.

Verstappen has treaded carefully in his remarks regarding ADUO in recent months, primarily to avoid antagonizing the FIA while the process was still in progress. After the official announcement, Motorsport.com queried the Dutch driver in Monza about the results, but surprisingly, Verstappen suggested that talks behind the scenes were still ongoing.

"My comments remain unchanged from last time," expressed the four-time world champion. "As a team, we are surprised and don't perceive the same figures, so yes, we are still in conversation with the FIA about this. We will see what unfolds."

The mention of ongoing discussions is rather unexpected given that the results have been officially disclosed, but the FIA has reiterated that Red Bull is still dissatisfied privately and continues to voice its discontent – although this will not alter the outcomes.

This situation arises partly because Red Bull has limited leverage. The core issue runs deeper – related to the system's structure – yet teams find it challenging to address this. The fundamental problem lies in the fact that measurements are based solely on the internal combustion engine, while the upgrade opportunities encompass the electrical aspects of the power unit as well.

FIA single-seater director Nikolas Tombazis has indicated a willingness to consider additional parameters, but teams and manufacturers have insisted on maintaining the system's simplicity.

With Red Bull leading the ICE ranking, this flaw in the system is being highlighted in the most unfavorable manner. Red Bull lacks strength in the electrical component of the power unit and needs to improve in that area, but cannot do so due to not receiving an ADUO token.

Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing

When Verstappen was again queried about ADUO in Madrid, he highlighted this issue, noting that the Italian Grand Prix showcased this discrepancy quite clearly.

"The thing is, of course, you have the measurement of the ICE, but not the battery, right? So it's two different aspects and ultimately, they almost deliver the same power," he explained.

"If you only assess one part, perhaps we excel in the ICE domain, but may not be as competitive on the battery front compared to Mercedes. It's challenging to determine, but that's how it seems right now."

Monza confirmed this. Verstappen was able to challenge Mercedes using overtake mode – and thus additional energy to recover and deploy – but once he took the lead and was without overtake mode, the actual limitations became evident.

"We just didn't have the same deployment capability as Mercedes, and it became quite apparent when I got into the lead," admitted the Dutchman. "It was extremely difficult to compete with them. I could only just keep pace when I had the overtake mode engaged.

"So, yeah, we need to improve and continue striving to enhance every facet: car, engine, battery, all of it. It's a continuous journey; we understand what requires our attention, but it takes time."

However, executing that is easier said than done, as Red Bull is heavily restricted in its actions without an ADUO token. While the deployment strategy can be fine-tuned for each circuit, Red Bull stands alone as the only manufacturer unable to implement an upgrade and is somewhat reliant on other manufacturers if it ever hopes to relinquish the top position.