Martin Brundle predicts 'heavy conversations' after latest Red Bull setback

Former F1 driver Martin Brundle has predicted there will be “heavy conversations” taking place at Red Bull following a difficult Bahrain Grand Prix.

The Milton Keynes-based squad could not get close to competing at the front of the grid in Bahrain, with rivals McLaren taking a dominant win with Oscar Piastri.

Max Verstappen crossed the line in sixth place after completing a last lap overtake on Pierre Gasly, marking his lowest result of the campaign.

Team-mate Yuki Tsunoda was ninth in the other Red Bull, marking the first time this year the second car has scored points.

Despite the boost of getting both cars in the points, Brundle labelled the event as a “torrid” outing for Red Bull. 

“Even Verstappen's talents couldn't save Red Bull from a torrid weekend,” Brundle wrote in his column for Sky F1. 

“The car looked a handful to drive and he was often seen struggling to slow down and turn in from the key braking zones in all track sessions. 

“After following Pierre Gasly's Alpine for endless laps, in the closing stages he was able to sneak past on the last circuit and claim a distant sixth place, not helped by some lumpy pit stops with equipment issues.

“Yuki Tsunoda would score his first couple of Red Bull points in ninth but considering the team won the Japanese GP just seven days before, it's all rather confusing - probably for them too.

“There'll be some heavy conversations going on.”

Reports following the Bahrain Grand Prix have suggested a “crisis meeting” will be held at the team as it aims to ensure it doesn't fall behind in the F1 title fight.