Red Bull Racing confirms the existence of a device to adjust the front bib height on its F1 cars RB20.
This news comes just one day before the free practice sessions kicking off the United States Grand Prix, following the FlA’s decision to tighten controls to prevent such maneuvers from happening between qualifying and the race. According to Red Bull, the system cannot be tampered with once the car is assembled, but other teams aren’t happy about it.
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Red Bull accused of cheating?
It all started when some teams began suspecting Red Bull Racing of playing with the height of its front bib during parc fermé, which is completely prohibited. Once the qualifying session starts, the cars enter the “parc fermé” configuration, and no further adjustments are allowed, except for minor tweaks to brake balance and the front wing. The FIA responded by announcing it would closely monitor this situation, using seals to ensure nothing changes after qualifying. Red Bull admitted that such a device exists on the RB20, but they insist it cannot be modified once the car is ready to run. This revelation came after Red Bull had to disclose certain technical details, as required by regulations. So far, there’s no evidence of any rule-breaking, but the FIA has decided to tighten the rules on this matter.
Red Bull has admitted that a device to alter its front bib height does exist but insists it cannot be used while the car is assembled…https://t.co/n7qsGJ7Q28
— Autosport (@autosport) October 17, 2024
McLaren still playing it safe
This isn’t the first time a team has been in the spotlight for its technical tricks. McLaren also had to explain itself after the Azerbaijan Grand Prix regarding the flexibility of its rear wing, nicknamed “mini-DRS.” After discussions with the FIA, they made some adjustments, and the issue seems settled. The FIA ruled that no penalties would be imposed. But now, with the championship battle heating up, McLaren and Red Bull are keeping a close watch on each other. Every technical innovation matters in this fierce competition. For Red Bull, this issue couldn’t have come at a worse time as the team fights to stay on top. Meanwhile, McLaren is hoping to capitalize on the situation to close the gap in the drivers’ championship.
A high-tension end to the Formula 1 season
The United States Grand Prix kicks off with free practice sessions. The new rules enforced by the FIA aim to ensure all teams are competing on a level playing field. While adjustments are still allowed during practice, any changes after qualifying are strictly prohibited. Red Bull Racing will need to be very careful to avoid any potential penalties. McLaren, on the other hand, hopes this crackdown on controls will strengthen fairness, and they’ll be on the lookout for any opportunity to gain an advantage. With tricky situations in the last three Grands Prix, the regulatory bodies will be doubling down on their efforts.
This article explores the recent revelation of Red Bull’s front bib adjustment device just ahead of the United States Grand Prix. With McLaren watching closely and the FIA tightening its regulations, the end of this F1 season promises to be more intense than ever, with every technical detail possibly making a difference in the championship race.
Featured image: Red Bull Content Pool