F1 News: Max Verstappen Brake Issue A Mystery - "Still Being Investigated"

Max Verstappen experienced a sudden retirement due to a brake failure at the Australian Grand Prix, casting shadows over the reliability of the machine's mechanics. However, there's a silver lining as Helmut Marko anticipates a smooth run at the forthcoming Japanese Grand Prix.

Key Takeaways:

• Verstappen's race in Australia was cut short after a brake issue on his car's right rear, marking his first non-top-ten finish in over two years.
• The cause of the failure has sparked a debate, initially attributed to the car's setup by Brembo, though later statements suggested a broader investigation is ongoing.
• Despite the hiccup, Verstappen and his team look forward to the Japanese Grand Prix with optimism, backed by his track record at Suzuka.

The Australian Grand Prix served as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of F1 racing when Max Verstappen had to bow out early due to a brake malfunction on his RB20. This unexpected turn of events occurred shortly after he lost his lead to Carlos Sainz, leaving him to limp back to the pits as the rear of his car started to burn.

The immediate response from Brembo, the team's brake supplier, to GPBlog, was to distance their products from the malfunction, with the manufacturer admitting that it was Red Bull's setup of the brake caliper that led to the fault.

Helmut Marko provided a more detailed insight into the situation. He said:

"Max [Verstappen's] brake broke down, the exact cause is still being investigated. But it's not down to the caliper. It's more an assembly problem, but that is being checked.

"For Japan I don't have any worries, that's not a problem," he admitted to Laola1.

The focus now shifts towards the Japanese Grand Prix, a venue where Verstappen has historically excelled and where Red Bull won their constructor's championship last year. Marko's confidence remains unshaken, bolstered by Verstappen's track record and the team's understanding of the Suzuka circuit.

"Suzuka is a power circuit that suits us, Max is always great there. I am very optimistic."