Red Bull's Helmut Marko concerned about tyre wear ahead of Chinese Grand Prix

The team's advisor highlighted the challenge posed by the high tyre wear characteristic of the track, emphasizing the importance of tire management for their championship campaign.

Marko's apprehension stems from the surprise encountered during the Australian Grand Prix, where Red Bull struggled with unexpected tyre degradation, impacting their performance.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Marko expressed his hopes for a smoother outing in Shanghai, telling Sky Sport, "I hope we won't have any surprises like in Melbourne."

The upcoming Chinese Grand Prix marks the first return to Shanghai since 2019 and introduces a Sprint weekend format, adding further complexity to the equation. Teams face the task of adapting to the unique demands of the circuit while navigating the challenges of a condensed schedule.

Anticipating the abrasive track surface and limited practice time, Marko draws lessons from the Australian Grand Prix to prepare Red Bull for the unknowns in China.

Despite acknowledging Sergio Perez's struggles with grip, Marko remains optimistic, stating, "I think now we know better how to react. But it's a completely new situation for most of us."

The Chinese Grand Prix, slated as the fifth race of the 2024 F1 season, promises intrigue with its Sprint qualifying session on Friday afternoon. Drivers will have a mere 60 minutes of practice to acquaint themselves with the circuit before the intense battle for grid positions ensues.

Scheduled for April 19-21, the race weekend unfolds over 56 laps of the 5.451-kilometre Shanghai International Circuit, setting the stage for another chapter in the thrilling F1 season. 

As teams brace for the challenges ahead, tyre management emerges as a pivotal factor in determining success on the track.