Racing
How the Red Bull RB9 Sparked the Legendary ‘Multi 21’ Controversy That Shook Formula 1 Forever
May
Introduction: ‘Multi 21’ — The Phrase That Became a Formula 1 Catchphrase
“Multi 21, Seb. Yeah… Multi 21.” Spoken with a slightly indignant Australian accent, this phrase instantly became one of the most infamous catchphrases in Formula 1 history. It was uttered by an infuriated Mark Webber following the 2013 Malaysian Grand Prix, after his teammate Sebastian Vettel blatantly disobeyed team orders to hold position and instead snatched victory from under Webber’s nose.
The phrase “Multi 21” was Red Bull Racing’s coded radio instruction meaning: car number 2 (Webber) to stay ahead of car number 1 (Vettel). But Vettel had other plans.
This moment didn’t just spark controversy—it became a defining chapter of one of Formula 1’s most intense intra-team battles, embodying the tension between team loyalty and individual ambition that permeates the sport.
1. The Red Bull RB9: A Masterpiece of Engineering and Speed
1.1 The RB9 – The Pinnacle of Red Bull Racing’s V8 Era
The Red Bull RB9 was the ultimate weapon in Red Bull Racing’s arsenal for the 2013 season. Designed by Adrian Newey and built to perfection, it combined blistering aerodynamic efficiency with the raw power of a Renault V8 engine. The RB9 was more than a race car; it was a symbol of Red Bull’s dominance during the final years of the V8 engine era.
This car represented cutting-edge technology, pushing the boundaries of what was possible in Formula 1. With it, Red Bull Racing sought to continue their streak of championships and cement their legacy.
Caption: The Red Bull RB9 exemplified cutting-edge design and performance, becoming one of the most dominant cars of its time.
1.2 The Drivers: Vettel and Webber – Two Champions, One Team
In 2013, Red Bull fielded a fiercely competitive driver lineup. Sebastian Vettel, already a three-time world champion, was determined to extend his reign, while veteran Mark Webber was fighting to prove he still belonged at the front. The RB9 was their shared weapon, but the rivalry behind the scenes was as intense as any wheel-to-wheel battle on track.
2. Understanding ‘Multi 21’: The Radio Message That Shook F1
2.1 What is ‘Multi 21’?
“Multi 21” was the code used by Red Bull’s race engineers to communicate a team order instructing the two drivers not to fight, with the car number 2 (Webber) maintaining position ahead of car number 1 (Vettel). It was a command to preserve the team’s 1-2 finish without risking unnecessary conflict or accidents.
2.2 The 2013 Malaysian Grand Prix: Where It All Went Wrong
Despite repeated radio messages, Vettel ignored the order. Lap after lap, he pressured Webber, eventually overtaking him on lap 45 in a spectacular and controversial move. The radio exchanges were frantic, with Webber’s race engineer Guillaume Rocquelin and team principal Christian Horner pleading for Vettel to comply.
Vettel’s decision to disobey the team sparked fury from Webber, who felt betrayed after years of loyalty to the team.
Caption: Vettel’s defiance of the Multi 21 order at the 2013 Malaysian GP sparked one of the most infamous moments in Red Bull Racing history.
3. The Backstory: Old Wounds and Lingering Grudges
3.1 The Brazil 2012 Incident That Fueled Vettel’s Anger
The Malaysian incident didn’t come out of nowhere. Tensions had been simmering since the previous season, notably after the dramatic 2012 Brazilian Grand Prix, where Webber’s aggressive move at the start forced Vettel towards the wall, causing him to drop back and eventually crash. Despite Vettel clinching his third world title that year, the incident left a mark on their relationship.
Vettel later admitted that the events from Brazil were “still on his mind” in Malaysia.
3.2 The Pressure of Defending Dominance
Entering 2013, Red Bull’s supremacy was under threat from Mercedes. The RB9 was quick, but rivals were closing the gap. Vettel was determined to assert his authority not just over competitors but within his own team, feeling the pressure to prove who was number one.
4. The Fight on Track: Drama and Tension in Sepang
4.1 Wheel-to-Wheel Battle
As Vettel closed in on Webber, the battle grew intense and dangerous. On the main straight, Vettel pulled out from behind Webber, narrowly avoiding a collision but showing clear intent to win at all costs.
Despite repeated radio warnings — “Sebastian, multi 21, multi 21” and “Look after your tyres please” — Vettel pushed harder, ignoring team orders and risking their 1-2 finish.
Caption: The fierce wheel-to-wheel battle between Vettel and Webber at Sepang showcased raw racing instincts clashing with team orders.
4.2 Team Principal Christian Horner’s Frustration
Even Christian Horner pleaded with Vettel over the radio: “C’mon Seb, this is getting silly now,” highlighting the growing desperation within the team to control the situation.
5. Aftermath and Fallout: The Impact on Red Bull Racing
5.1 Webber’s Reaction: Feeling Betrayed
Mark Webber’s radio message, “Multi 21, Seb,” was more than a call for order — it was a cry of frustration. Webber felt utterly betrayed by Vettel’s actions, especially given their history and team dynamics.
He openly expressed his disappointment in how the team handled the situation, feeling Red Bull sided with Vettel without fully supporting him.
5.2 Vettel’s Perspective: Just Racing to Win
Vettel defended his actions, stating he was focused on winning and didn’t understand why the team wanted to hold position. He admitted he respected Webber but believed that Webber hadn’t always supported the team fully in the past.
His unapologetic stance deepened the rift but reflected the cutthroat nature of elite motorsport.
5.3 The Team’s Struggle with Internal Politics
The incident exposed the fragile balance between cooperation and competition in Formula 1 teams. Red Bull had to navigate the fallout carefully, attempting to maintain harmony while pushing for championship success.
6. The Red Bull RB9: A Symbol of Dominance Despite Drama
6.1 Vettel’s Fourth Consecutive Championship
Despite the internal tensions, Vettel dominated the 2013 season in the RB9, winning nine consecutive races and sealing his fourth straight World Championship.
The RB9 was heralded as one of the most successful and dominant cars of the V8 era.
6.2 Webber’s Declining Role and Final Season
For Webber, the RB9 season was bittersweet. He never won a race in 2013 and finished runner-up to Vettel four times. The Multi 21 controversy shadowed his final season before retiring from Formula 1 to pursue a career in endurance racing.
Caption: Vettel’s dominance in the RB9 contrasted sharply with Webber’s struggles, highlighting the team tensions of 2013.
7. Legacy of Multi 21: The Incident That Redefined Team Orders in F1
7.1 Team Orders Debate Rekindled
The “Multi 21” incident remains a pivotal moment in Formula 1 history, symbolizing the eternal struggle between team control and driver freedom.
It fueled ongoing debates about whether teams should impose orders or let drivers race, a question still relevant in modern Formula 1.
7.2 Cultural Impact: A Phrase Immortalized
“Multi 21” transcended its literal meaning, becoming part of F1 folklore. Fans, commentators, and drivers often reference it when discussing team conflicts or controversial team orders.
Conclusion: Red Bull RB9 and Multi 21 – A Defining Chapter in Formula 1 History
The saga of the Red Bull RB9 and the Multi 21 controversy perfectly encapsulates the drama, passion, and complexity of Formula 1. It reminds us that beyond speed and technology, motorsport is a human story of ambition, rivalry, and sometimes betrayal.
For fans who want to celebrate the spirit of this legendary team and moment, check out exclusive Red Bull Racing-inspired apparel at Kozmozcyber. From hoodies to jogging pants, wear your passion for one of F1’s most iconic eras with pride. Visit Kozmozcyber.com and race into style today!
If you’re a true fan of Red Bull Racing and want to show your passion in style, Kozmozcyber has you covered. Our exclusive collection of high-quality hoodies and jogging pants lets you wear your racing pride comfortably every day. Whether you’re heading to the track or cheering from home, these stylish pieces make sure you stand out. Inspired by legendary moments like the Red Bull RB9 and Multi 21 controversy, our apparel celebrates the spirit of motorsport like no other. Don’t miss your chance to grab limited-edition designs that resonate with every racing enthusiast. Shop now at Kozmozcyber.com and join a community that lives and breathes speed and passion. Elevate your fan gear and represent Red Bull Racing with confidence and comfort. Visit us today and race ahead in style!
