A Decade Later: Reflecting on Red Bull’s Infamous “Multi-21” Incident
Ten years have passed since the 2013 Malaysian Grand Prix, which witnessed one of the most controversial moments in Formula 1 history. The infamous “Multi-21” incident involving Red Bull Racing teammates Mark Webber and Sebastian Vettel sent shockwaves throughout the F1 world and permanently altered the dynamic between the two drivers and the team. As we mark a decade since this unforgettable race, it’s time to look back at the events that unfolded and the lasting impact they’ve had on the sport.
The 2013 season saw Red Bull Racing fielding a formidable duo: three-time World Champion Sebastian Vettel and the experienced Mark Webber. The team had been dominant in previous years, with Vettel winning three consecutive drivers’ championships from 2010 to 2012. However, tensions between the two teammates had been simmering, and the events at the Malaysian Grand Prix brought them to a boiling point.
On March 24, 2013, Webber was leading the race in the final stages, with Vettel closely behind. The team issued a “Multi-21” order, instructing both drivers to hold their positions and conserve the cars to ensure a 1-2 finish. However, Vettel defied the team orders and engaged in a fierce battle with Webber, ultimately overtaking him to claim victory. The move left Webber visibly furious, and the post-race atmosphere was tense, to say the least.
The incident not only showcased the strained relationship between Webber and Vettel but also highlighted the challenges teams face when managing intra-team rivalries. The fallout from the “Multi-21” saga was far-reaching. It raised questions about team orders, driver integrity, and the balance of power within a team. Many believed that Vettel’s actions damaged the spirit of fair competition within the sport.
In the aftermath, Red Bull Racing management faced criticism for their handling of the situation, with many arguing that Vettel should have faced disciplinary action for disobeying team orders. However, the team stood by their driver, and Vettel went on to win his fourth consecutive World Championship that year. Webber, on the other hand, announced his retirement from Formula 1 at the end of the season, moving on to compete in the FIA World Endurance Championship.
A decade on, the “Multi-21” incident remains a hot topic among F1 fans and pundits. It serves as a reminder of the intense competition between teammates and the challenges teams face in managing such rivalries. As we reflect on this unforgettable moment in Formula 1 history, it’s clear that the impact of the “Multi-21” incident continues to reverberate through the sport, influencing team dynamics and shaping the way teams and drivers approach intra-team rivalries.