Red Bull admits the existence of a system to modify the ride height
The FIA has strengthened its checks following suspicions about a device allowing the modification of the height of the rear wing of the Red Bull. Although the team acknowledges the existence of such a mechanism, it claims that it is impossible to manipulate it once the car is assembled, thus ensuring compliance with current regulations.
As the United States Grand Prix approaches, controversy intensifies around Red Bull, accused of exploiting a mechanism to adjust the height of its rear wing. While the team acknowledges the existence of this device, it claims it cannot be manipulated once the car is assembled.
Read also: A team suspected of tampering with its floor in the Parc Fermé.
During the team gathering in Austin, the debate intensified around Red Bull, accused by its rivals of using a technique allowing to modify the height of its rear wing thanks to a component accessible from the cockpit. Rumors had already circulated in Singapore, where the FIA would have been alerted of the suspicions weighing on the Milton Keynes team.
New measures to ensure compliance
From this weekend, new procedures will be implemented, including the installation of seals on adjustable components, ensuring their immobility.
These speculations emerged after Red Bull shared information about this component with the FIA, in accordance with the open-source parts regulations.
The device in question could be adjusted by a mechanic to influence the ride height. Although this manipulation is allowed during the tests, any modification after the start of the qualifications, under the rules of Parc Fermé, is illegal.
It seems that discussions took place during the Singapore Grand Prix between the FIA and the teams involved, resulting in exchanges with Red Bull to ensure that no infraction was taking place.
Defend his integrity
This week, the FIA declared that it had not found any evidence that Red Bull had adjusted this device during the Parc Fermé. However, it has decided to step up monitoring to prevent any future infringement.
In response, Red Bull denies any irregularity, stating that the device cannot be manipulated once the car is ready to drive: « Yes, it exists, although it is inaccessible once the car is fully assembled and ready to drive. In the numerous correspondences we have had with the FIA, this piece has been mentioned, and we have agreed on a plan for the future. »
This controversy comes as the fight for the title between Red Bull and McLaren intensifies. The two teams are closely watching each other, with McLaren recently being forced to review the flexibility of its rear wing after discussions with the FIA.”
Innovation, key word of Red Bull
Red Bull has brought many improvements to F1 in recent years. An ability to innovate that makes it a model in the genre within the paddock. The heart of our sport is innovation. Red Bull has been the leader and they have innovated. In the end, all teams look at the rules and try to figure out how to work them and get the most out of them, even if it means pushing the boundaries a little bit, said Lewis Hamilton speaking to Sky Sports.
The Briton continued: « You just have to keep evolving and be better controlled. But in the end, they did a better job. God knows how long they have had this and they have won championships. Maybe it will stop now. I don’t think that’s the only thing that will stop them. We have to continue to innovate and be ahead rather than trying to catch up. »
Translate: Also read: The roles of the FIA in the Formula 1 World Championship
