Max Verstappen is taking a cautious approach to this weekend's Monaco Grand Prix, with the iconic venue set to expose one of Red Bull's biggest weaknesses.
The four-time world champion has failed to finish on the podium in Monaco since securing victory at the historic circuit in 2023 and is unsure whether a podium is on the cards this time around.
One of Red Bull's biggest problems so far this season has been its ride quality, with Verstappen often complaining about the RB22's balance over bumps and kerbs.
Those factors will be put to the ultimate test at the Circuit de Monaco, where strong performance over bumps and kerbs is essential for a competitive result.
Asked how he assesses Red Bull's chances in Monaco, Verstappen said: "Let's see. I don't know, it will depend on a lot of things. I don't know how the car is going to feel. Monaco can always give you some surprises.
"Realistically, from my side, we've been okay in the low-speed corners, but at the same time, here you need to be good over the bumps and kerbs, which is where we're not that great. So, yeah, we'll have to see how it evolves throughout the weekend."
It has been a mixed start to the season for both Verstappen and Red Bull, with Canada representing the Dutchman's first podium of the year and the team's first since becoming a power unit manufacturer in F1.
The 28-year-old has made no secret of where he feels improvements to the RB22 are needed, but Montreal did highlight several areas that require attention.
Discussing where Red Bull needs to improve, Verstappen explained: "I mean, you want to improve in every area. We want more grip, you want more power, you want better braking efficiency, you want the tyres to operate in a better window. So, in that sense, you want to be better everywhere.
"But yeah, I think looking at Montreal, we were definitely lacking on the straights, but also in the corners. I think, yeah, the ride, or in general our performance over the bumps, was not, let's say, the best. And of course, the same applies in high-speed corners at other circuits.
"Now, of course, here there are no high-speed corners, but normally that has not been our biggest strength."
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