McLaren’s Zak Brown has expressed skepticism about Red Bull’s explanation regarding a controversial ride-height device on their RB20, stating that the rationale “doesn’t stack up.” He warned that “massive consequences” loom if the device is found to have been used illegally.
Red Bull, with driver Max Verstappen leading McLaren’s Lando Norris by 52 points in the Drivers’ Championship as they approach the United States Grand Prix, confirmed they have agreed to make changes to their car following discussions with the FIA.
McLaren and other teams raised concerns that the device could allow Red Bull to change the car’s ride height advantageously under ‘parc ferme’ conditions, which is against the regulations.
Red Bull acknowledged the device’s existence but claimed it is not accessible when the car is fully assembled. The FIA stated it had not seen evidence of any team utilizing such devices but noted that doing so would be against the rules. Enhanced monitoring will take place from Austin onwards to prevent misuse, with potential seals on critical parts.
Understanding the Front Bib in F1
The front bib, or T-Tray, is located under the front of an F1 car, serving as a mount for the mandatory wooden plank. It can alter the car’s ride height and plays a crucial role in achieving optimal downforce during qualifying. However, excessive wear of the plank is regulated, and violations have previously resulted in disqualifications, as seen with Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc at the 2023 United States Grand Prix.
In an interview, Brown questioned the integrity of Red Bull’s claims, highlighting inconsistencies in their statements. He emphasized that altering the car in parc ferme is strictly prohibited, warning that any infraction would be a serious violation with severe penalties.
The situation escalated after McLaren was previously instructed by the FIA to modify a ‘mini-DRS’ device following the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Brown emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in the sport amid ongoing uncertainties.
Red Bull’s Response
Red Bull’s motorsport advisor Helmut Marko defended the device as “completely legal,” claiming that all teams were aware of it and it could not be modified between qualifying and race. Marko noted that demonstrations of the device were conducted for FIA officials to clarify its operation.
The controversy ignited when some teams alerted the FIA about the ride-height adjusting device, triggering a review of compliance with the sport’s regulations. The FIA assured they would implement rigorous measures to verify adherence to the rules.
Norris commented on the potential impact of the device on Verstappen’s performance, noting that while it could have provided an edge, it would not solely dictate race outcomes. He maintained that any competitive advantage was just as much about execution and not merely the presence of the device.
As the F1 season resumes in Austin following a month-long hiatus, the paddock buzzes with discussions surrounding this development, with Red Bull’s assertion of compliance serving to calm suspicions while the FIA continues its investigation.
Upcoming United States GP Schedule
Friday, October 18
8:30 PM: Team Principals’ Press Conference
10:00 PM: United States GP Sprint Qualifying*
Saturday, October 19
6:00 PM: United States GP Sprint build-up
7:00 PM: United States GP Sprint
8:30 PM: Ted’s Sprint Notebook
10:00 PM: United States GP Qualifying build-up
11:00 PM: United States GP Qualifying*
Sunday, October 20
6:30 PM: Grand Prix Sunday: United States GP build-up
8:00 PM: THE UNITED STATES GRAND PRIX
10:00 PM: Chequered Flag: United States GP Reaction
11:00 PM: Ted’s Notebook
*Live coverage available.
Stay tuned for all the action from the United States GP Sprint weekend and more exclusive content only on ECNETNews.
