'Inspector' Max Verstappen puzzled by surprise steering wheel on new Red Bull
Max Verstappen was left puzzled by a peculiar steering wheel on Red Bull's new RB22 show car, questioning if it was a simulator unit during the Ford launch event.
Red Bull finally pulled the covers off the RB22, revealing a glossy new livery that marks a significant departure from the matte finishes of recent seasons. While the four-time champions debuted the car at a Ford event, it was Max Verstappen who stole the show by playing "inspector." The Dutch driver was visibly confused by the steering wheel on the show car, openly questioning if it was actually a simulator unit rather than a component destined for the track.
Why it matters:
While livery launches are primarily marketing exercises, the interaction highlights the sharp attention to detail that defines a champion driver. It also serves as a reminder that the car on display is far from the final specification that will race in Melbourne. As Red Bull integrates more deeply with Ford, these events become crucial for brand synergy, but ultimately, the technical reality is what matters to the drivers.
The details:
- Visual Shift: The team opted for a striking gloss treatment, giving Verstappen's machine a distinctly flashy appearance compared to the stealthy look of previous years.
- The Mystery Wheel: Upon inspecting the cockpit, Verstappen immediately noticed something was off. "What is that? Is that a sim steering wheel or something?" he queried in a video posted on Instagram.
- Driver Reactions: While reserve driver Isack Hadjar tried to remain positive, saying, "I mean, I don't mind. It's quite nice," Verstappen was less convinced. He asked, "Where did they get that from? Nice, it's just more... What the hell? I have to ask them where they made that."
- Team Banter: Red Bull acknowledged the scrutiny with a playful caption, writing, "Inspector Max is back," referencing their star driver's tendency to spot even the smallest anomalies.
What's next:
Despite the confusion over the show car parts, the team is now fully focused on the final specification. The RB22 that will grace the grid in Australia is expected to be significantly different from the glossy model unveiled at the Ford event, with the actual racing steering wheel firmly in place.