In the third race of the 2024 Formula 1 Season, Max Verstappen faced an unexpected turn of events, departing early from the Australian Grand Prix and ending his impressive 10-race winning streak and his remarkable 43-race finishing streak. Verstappen, starting from his fourth consecutive pole position, initially led the pack into the first corner.
However, just two laps into the race, Carlos Sainz, recently recovered from appendix surgery, managed to overtake the Three-time World Champion, indicating potential trouble ahead for Verstappen. As the Ferrari smoothly took over the Red Bull, Verstappen radioed his team, expressing his struggle: “I just lost the car, really weird.”
Shortly after, Verstappen’s Red Bull began emitting smoke, signaling mechanical issues. He swiftly made his way to the pitlane just as flames started appearing from his right rear tire.
This unfortunate turn of events marked the first race utilizing Red Bull’s new power unit, prompting speculation that it might have caused the mechanical malfunction.
Verstappen’s race came to an early end on lap three of the Australian GP, halting his remarkable 43-race streak of finishing races. Oracle Red Bull Racing later confirmed on Twitter/X that the official cause of retirement was attributed to a right rear brake issue.
Max’s retirement due to a right rear brake issue marks his first race retirement since Australia 2022, a significant setback for the Dutch driver. In an interview with Sky Sports, Verstappen likened the experience to “driving with the handbrake on,” citing a persistent feeling of the right rear brake being stuck from the race’s start.
Despite his unfortunate exit, Verstappen will be credited with a 19th place finish, as Williams could only field one of their two drivers following Alex Albon’s crash in Practice 1 and Logan Sargeant’s seat replacement.”
