The FIA is facing mounting pressure from Red Bull’s Formula 1 competitors to conduct a comprehensive investigation into a device on the RB20 that alters ride height. This development adds to the ongoing technical disputes in the paddock.
Last month, McLaren attracted significant scrutiny over their rear wing, which played a key role in their victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Video evidence suggested that the wing’s flaps flexed upwards at high speeds, creating a ‘mini-DRS’ effect. Since flexible bodywork is prohibited under the regulations, this led to complaints from other top teams, especially Red Bull. In response, McLaren agreed to modify the wing, which won’t be used again until the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
While there’s currently no proof that Red Bull has engaged in any illegal practices, both McLaren and Ferrari remain uneasy about the situation. They want absolute assurance that Christian Horner’s team hasn’t manipulated their car’s ride height while in parc fermé conditions. Disassembling the car would be necessary for such adjustments, but Zak Brown suggested this could be justified under the pretext of ensuring driver comfort.
After the first practice session at the United States Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas, Red Bull showcased their procedures to the FIA in their garage. Notably, a mechanic was seen blocking cameras once it became apparent that the investigation was being recorded.
In light of the ongoing controversy—dubbed ‘bibgate’ due to Red Bull’s ability to raise their front bib, Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur shared his thoughts with Sky Italy. As direct rivals in the constructors’ championship, Ferrari is only 34 points behind Red Bull, which is closer than Red Bull’s 41-point gap to McLaren. F1 teams routinely review FIA documentation on rival cars to ensure compliance with regulations, and Frederic Vasseur highlighted the potential value of insights from former Red Bull employees. Recent departures include prominent figures like Adrian Newey, Jonathan Wheatley, and Will Courtenay, though they won’t join their new teams until at least next year.
Importantly, Red Bull has employed this mechanism for several seasons, meaning that knowledge of its operation extends beyond just current staff. In theory, they could lower the ride height on qualifying days when fuel levels are light to enhance downforce, then raise it for the race to prevent scraping with a full tank. This tactic would eliminate the need for compromises.
“The FIA can talk to those who are in the team and those who have left the team to better understand the situation,” – the Ferrari team principal explained during the United States Grand Prix weekend.
It’s important to emphasize that scrutineers have yet to find any evidence of wrongdoing. Any violations regarding set-up rules would be considered serious, particularly since teams are permitted to adjust only the front wing angle after the start of qualifying.
Former Ferrari technical director Nikolas Tombazis, who is currently placed in the role of single seater director, stated that the FIA cannot rely on CCTV footage for clarity, as the minute changes in height would be too subtle to detect from a distance.
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