Max Verstappen has categorically denied the recent outlawing of asymmetric braking systems within the Formula 1 Technical Regulations will affect Red Bull’s performance at the Dutch Grand Prix.
The World Motor Sport Council approved changes to Article 11.1.2 of the F1 Technical Regulations on July 31, with the amendment reading: “Any system or mechanism that can structurally or intentionally produce asymmetric braking for any axle is prohibited.”
The FIA has clarified the change was made in order to firm up the regulations and prevent any loopholes being exploited both now, and for the technical shakeup in 2026.
However, that hasn’t stopped people from speculating that Red Bull is the cause for the change with some believing the Milton Keynes-based squad was running such as system earlier in the year.
Asked during Thursday’s Dutch GP press conference whether the regulation change will affect Red Bull’s performance, Verstappen was short and to the point.
“Not at all, no,” he said.
Verstappen’s defiance comes amid claims that Red Bull was being caught by the competition from the Miami GP onwards due to the team ditching a system alleged to be prohibited under 11.1.2.
Moreover, online discourse has also attributed Verstappen’s rear brake failure during the Australian GP to the conspiracy theory.
Those within Red Bull have denied any such system was in place on its RB20 and the FIA also told Motorsport.com “There is no truth that any team was using such a system.”
Asked by Autosport about the speculation surrounding Red Bull Verstappen said “I don’t know where that comes from. We don’t have that on the car either, so we don’t worry about it to be honest.”
Verstappen instead is worried more about overall performance and the Dutchman, who always demands excellence, is working with Red Bull to reclaim the team’s dominant form.
A 42-point margin over McLaren in the Constructors’ standings is by no means safe with 10 rounds to go and the Dutchman’s mind during Thursday’s press conference was focussed on learning more about his RB20.
“I think we’re still trying to improve, trying to find a better car balance,” he said. “And hopefully, yeah, we can start [at Zandvoort] to find a better balance.”
