The world of Formula One is full of strict rules and intense relations between the various teams, and the rivalry between McLaren and Red Bull is certainly hotting up of late.
Red Bull Racing are leading the way in the F1 leaderboard with six races left to go this season, thanks to the impervious form of their star man, Max Verstappen.
However, the team has attracted criticism from McLaren chief Zak Brown, who suggests Red Bull have been bending the rules when it comes to one particular vehicle adjustment. Now, Brown has expressed his delight that the FIA are investigating this issue more stringently.
Red Bull's ride-height device allows them to lower the height of their car, making it more aerodynamic. This is only allowed to be used between training and qualifying, but the RB20 does give the team access to the device via a bib at the front of the floor when in parc ferme conditions.
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Brown thinks this gives Red bull a major advantage, but this is something the FIA are looking into now.
Speaking to Sky Sports about the situation, Brown said: "Ingenuity is part of Formula 1, and then there are black-and-white rules. You cannot touch your race car, other than for things like driver comfort."
He added: "They chose their words very carefully, saying 'when the car is fully assembled', but you're allowed to not have the car fully assembled in parc ferme when you're working on driver comfort.
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"Also, what doesn't quite stack up is the comment that you can't modify it. Well then why does the FIA feel they need to put a seal on it? If it's not accessible post or during parc ferme, then why put a seal on it?"
The investigation is ongoing by the FIA, who were spotted inspecting the device in action this weekend.
On the latest development, Brown continued: "I'm very happy to see the FIA is on it. I think it needs to be a very thorough investigation because, if you touch your car from a performance standpoint after parc ferme or in parc ferme, that is a black and white, material, substantial breach, which comes with massive consequences."
Topics: McLaren, Red Bull Racing, Formula 1
Jakob Barnes