GPS analysis reveals where Mercedes is clearly gaining time over Red Bull | 2021 Qatar GP. GPS analysis reveals where Mercedes is clearly gaining time over Red Bull.

According to German automobile magazine Auto Motor und Sport, despite running a rear wing with more downforce in the qualifying session for the 2021 Qatar Grand Prix at Losail International Circuit, Red Bull were as fast as Mercedes on the straights. But even with a more downforce rear wing, they lost against Mercedes in the corners. Especially in the second sector, where Max Verstappen lost 0.257s to Lewis Hamilton.

GPS analysis of Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen’s laps show quite clearly where Mercedes is gaining time. A tenth in Turn 4 and 5, half a tenth in Turn 6, two tenths between Turn 7 and 10, half a tenth in Turn 11 and 15. Red Bull only holds its own in the finishing corner and first two corners of the Losail International Circuit.

German automobile magazine Auto Motor und Sport also wrote that Red Bull changed to their more downforce rear wing, because there were some rumors that Mercedes might protest the other one with the DRS issue [flapping wing]. Although this kind of rear wing behaviour gives disadvantages, it is illegal according to rule 3.6.8.