It’s been an electrifying start to the 2024 Formula 1 season for the Racing Bulls team, whose rebranding from AlphaTauri brought not only fresh colours but also renewed ambition. Under new leadership and with significant technical changes, the Faenza-based squad set out to redefine their place in F1’s competitive midfield. Now, with the calendar reaching its halfway point, it is time to review their highs, lows, and the prospects that the rest of the season holds for Hungary’s newly energized fan base.
This year, the Racing Bulls unveiled a car that immediately turned heads, underlining the team’s technical progression. Early winter testing showed promise, with the new car proving more responsive and reliable than its predecessor. Yuki Tsunoda, now in his fourth season, quickly established himself as team leader. The Japanese driver demonstrated confidence and consistency, frequently outpacing new teammate Daniel Ricciardo. Tsunoda’s best results, including impressive points finishes in Bahrain and Australia, mark him as one of the standout drivers of the midfield so far in 2024 and have created a real talking point amongst Hungarian fans, many of whom have followed his career since his F2 days.
Off-track, Racing Bulls have worked tirelessly to optimize their collaboration with sister team Red Bull Racing, making the most of shared technology while maintaining their independent spirit. The new organizational approach has clearly paid off, translating into quicker pit stops and sharper race strategies. The technical side, led by Laurent Mekies, implemented updates that immediately yielded results on circuits suiting the car’s strengths, notably in slow and medium-speed corners — a vital edge which delivered crucial points at challenging venues such as Monaco and Montreal.
But the 2024 journey hasn't been free of disappointment. Daniel Ricciardo’s return raised expectations, but so far his adaptation has been slow. Mistakes during qualifying and races cost the team valuable points, especially in high-pressure European rounds. This hasn't gone unnoticed by the Hungarian F1 fraternity, who had high hopes from the ever-popular Australian. Nevertheless, Ricciardo’s experience remains invaluable, and paddock insiders believe his breakthrough result is coming sooner rather than later. Another challenge has been extracting consistent race pace. While qualifying has often gone well, tire management and strategic variances have sometimes seen the Racing Bulls slip down the order over race distances, highlighting areas still in need of refinement.
Looking ahead, the team’s mid-season upgrades are generating excitement. Rumours swirl of a new floor design and revised aerodynamic components arriving before the summer break, targeting circuits like Hungaroring where strong chassis balance is critical. For Hungarian fans preparing to fill the grandstands in July, the Racing Bulls might deliver their best weekend yet, given the team’s form on twisty, technical tracks and Tsunoda’s growing maturity under pressure. Ricciardo, too, will relish a return to a venue where he’s enjoyed past success. No stranger to the unique atmosphere of the Hungarian Grand Prix, both drivers are eager to reward the team’s relentless effort with a memorable result in front of one of F1’s most passionate crowds.
Midfield battles have always been the spice of Formula 1, and this season, Racing Bulls are right at the centre of the storm. Sharp pit work, bold strategies and a touch of unpredictability have made them must-watch contenders every Sunday. As the margins between teams continue to shrink, Hungary’s growing F1 community is watching closely. Progress may be measured in tenths and even hundredths, but the heart and determination at Faenza suggests that bigger scalps — and maybe even a podium — are firmly in their sights before the chequered flag falls on 2024.
As the season restarts and the heat of summer builds, keep your eyes on Racing Bulls. Their story is far from over — and for Hungarian fans, the most thrilling chapters might well be just ahead.
