After a disappointing qualifying in Melbourne Red Bull's drivers downplayed the impact of the removal of the team's controversial 'trick' suspension, saying it has nothing to do with its lack of pace in Australia so far.
Ahead of the season, the FIA clamped down on 'trick' suspensions following a letter from Ferrari aimed at devices suspected to illegally aid aerodynamic performance used by Mercedes and Red Bull last year. Both teams changed their devices during Barcelona pre-season tests at the FIA's request, leading to speculation they could suffer a major performance drop-off as a result.
Red Bull came into the season opener as an unknown quantity following an underwhelming winter, with expectations raised by the fact the new regulations shift focus back to aerodynamics.