The 2024 F1 season is finally underway. The paddock has embraced itself for the season-opener in Bahrain. Many expect Max Verstappen and Red Bull to continue their dominance after some incredible running in pre-season testing. However, the reigning F1 world champion seemed to be struggling with the radically-designed RB-20 during the first free practice session of this season.

Verstappen put in a good number of laps during FP1 at the Bahrain GP weekend. However, the Dutch driver was not thrilled with the car’s overall setup and calibration. The three-time world champion complained to his race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase that everything was out of order behind the wheel. The 26-year-old claimed that the setup was miles off from his liking.

Everything is s***, miles off.Max Verstappen said on team radio (H&T: @formularacers_)

However, it must be noted that Max Verstappen had topped the timing sheets right before this small outburst. Nevertheless, the Dutch driver faced a few issues during the session. The reigning world champion even had difficulties with the gearbox of the Red Bull RB-20, be it upshifts or downshifts. After pre-season testing, Verstappen had claimed that the new car did everything he wanted in the test.

Still very bad downshifts and upshifts. Car is literally jumping.Discover: Why will Formula 1 have the first two races of 2024 on Saturdays instead of Sundays?Is Max Verstappen’s FP1 outburst a sign of Red Bull’s struggles?

Verstappen might’ve faced issues during the first practice session. However, the 26-year-old will undoubtedly remain the favorite for the first round of the season. Even Fernando Alonso made it clear in pre-season testing that Max Verstappen would come home to win the Bahrain GP and eventually the 2024 championship.

Max Verstappen driving the RB-20 in pre-season testing (Via IMAGO)

Milton Keynes might be struggling with the car setup as Verstappen finished in P6 at the end of the session. However, the reigning world champion would be working with his crew to make the necessary adjustments before the start of the second practice session shortly.

Certainly, fans would be hoping that Max Verstappen’s early struggles result in a tight grid for Saturday’s race. However, Red Bull will work extensively to ensure that the RB20 is at home during Qualifying. Perhaps, Verstappen and Milton Keynes are even sandbagging to throw off rivals before showcasing the car’s true potential.