As the season progressed, Red Bull’s confidence in their own design was vindicated. Although the RB18 didn’t start the season as the quickest, it soon surpassed the benchmark set by Ferrari and ultimately clinched both championships. In contrast, Mercedes faced challenges with “porpoising,” and for the first time since 2013, they were no longer counted among the top teams.
The disparity between expectations and reality in Formula 1 serves as a reminder that the sport’s landscape is ever-evolving. Bold designs may capture attention, but it’s the performance on the track that ultimately determines success.