Red Bull releases 'Macarena' as Verstappen shows support for the team.

      Red Bull has decided to drop its problematic 'Macarena' rear wing for the Belgian GP this weekend following recent failures that left Max Verstappen frustrated at Silverstone. The bold design, which was noted for its wider opening compared to Ferrari's, was discarded after Verstappen had two off-track incidents due to failures in Austria and Silverstone, fueling speculation about his future amid Red Bull’s current difficulties. For Spa, Red Bull has reverted to an earlier specification while they work on a lasting solution.

      Verstappen clarified that his anger post-Silverstone was a momentary reaction. "It was just after getting out of the car and having faced the same issue for the second time," he explained when questioned about his visible distress. "I understand the team is doing everything they can to fix the issues. They don’t want to see these problems either."

      The Dutch driver also denied claims that Red Bull had stopped considering his feedback. "We did discuss it, but when I return to the factory, I don't need to say, 'You're not listening!' Those conversations are more collaborative," he stated.

      Regarding the return to the previous rear wing, Verstappen mentioned that the decision was evident. "They have investigated many aspects and reached some conclusions, but some things remain hard to grasp. Did I request the old wing? No, it seemed clear to everyone that it would be wise for this weekend," he added. Verstappen remains optimistic that the new design will eventually make a comeback. "Ultimately, yes. They just have to determine how to resolve the issues. I hope that wing will return as soon as possible."

      Retired team advisor Dr. Helmut Marko acknowledged that Red Bull’s recent challenges have heightened tensions. "The crashes in Spielberg and Silverstone have intensified the situation," he told Kronen Zeitung. "It is evident that something is amiss. Both sides must now work to align and find a solution through productive discussions."

      Marko emphasized the priority of providing Verstappen with a competitive car again "as it was in Monaco and Austria." "In Silverstone, they fell behind other leading teams. There needs to be more consistent performance."

      Isack Hadjar admitted that reverting to the previous rear wing is a setback. "We ourselves find it challenging to gauge how much we've lost by switching back to this version," he noted. "We still believe we can be about as competitive as last weekend, although the rear wing appears less impressive. We're doing everything possible to return to the prior specification swiftly, but with increased reliability."

      In related 'Macarena' news, Sky Italia reports that Ferrari has also delayed the introduction of its evolved design, while McLaren tested a similar concept during its filming day at Silverstone. "However, the component is not yet ready to be officially used on a race weekend," the Italian broadcaster mentioned.