Albon 'sensitivity' to RB16 made worse by Sochi layout - Horner

©RedBull

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Red Bull's Christian Horner says Alex Albon's particular sensitivity to his car's characteristics was "accentuated" by Sochi's specific layout.

In qualifying and on race day, Albon's performance was no match for Red Bull teammate Max Verstappen who finished second in last Sunday's Russian Grand Prix, over 30 seconds ahead of the British-Thai racer.

Albon's performance relative to Verstappen has been inconsistent this season. However, a solid drive at Mugello that yielded his first career podium in F1 was seen as a breakthrough result that would perhaps spur on the 24-year-old.

Horner believes that Sochi's blend of long straights and big breaking zones proved challenging for Albon given his difficulties in getting to grips with Red Bull's RB16 chassis.

©RedBull

"Alex is particularly sensitive to some of the characteristics of the car," Horner said.

"He's struggling with that and they're accentuated at this type of circuit with short corners and big braking zones.

"Obviously there is plenty to look at for him. His second half of the race, he recovered reasonably well, but obviously it's been a tough weekend for him.

"So it was a shame, after the podium two weeks ago, that this one has probably been one of the hardest of the year for him."

Albon: Verstappen doesn't 'create politics' in the team

Verstappen has also complained about the RB16's inconsistent behavior, although the Dutchman appears less impacted by the car's vagaries.

Horner said the Milton Keynes squad is still working on trying to make its 2020 car a more predictable and efficient proposition for both its drivers.

"I think we've understood some of the issues that we've got with the car," added the Red Bull chief.

"Obviously we are working hard to address those. And I think hopefully in the remaining races, we should be able to, I hope, take steps that will improve the car in that area."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.