The FIA has a set of rules and regulations that provide an even ground for every F1 team. These regulations are crucial to maintaining intense competition among the teams, which adds a spark. However, sometimes, the teams try to find a loop in the rulebook to exploit an advantage.
A recent incident depicts this situation as the Red Bull team admits to using an illegal device before every race. The Parc Ferme regulation bars the team from making any significant change to the car between the qualifying and Sunday races. However, Red Bull has been sneaking a device to change the height of the front bib, gaining an unfair advantage. Meanwhile, a spokesperson from Red Bull explained the entire conundrum while accepting all the allegations.
Red Bull Admits The Use Of Illegal Device, Engages In Talks With FIA
In the last few weeks, an unspecified team has been accused of breaching the Parc Ferme rule. According to a report by Motorsport, all the rival F1 teams were in discussion with the regulatory body to identify the culprit. Meanwhile, an FIA spokesperson recently said that the management is closely monitoring all the suspects, although there is no solid evidence as of now. Before the U.S. GP, a rival team alarmed the governing body of an illegal device that was used by one of the teams. Later, a search squad from the FIA found the illegal device, which was used to adjust the front bib height. It was revealed that the team under suspicion was the reigning world champion, Red Bull.
Once the news swept through the paddock, it spread like wildfire, forcing the Milton Keynes-based outfit to step forward and admit their mistake. The spokesperson from RBR revealed that a height-altering device exists, though inaccessible once the car is ready for the race. The representative also opened up about a discussion with FIA, as the team is currently working on a plan to move ahead.
Per this statement, the Red Bull team doesn’t use the device post-FP3, as the car is under Parc Ferme. However, the Austrian squad is scrutinized, as rivals believe they altered the height just before the race. Nevertheless, this device has gone unnoticed until now because it was used directly inside the cockpit. In the end, the regulatory body will take the final call regarding the legitimacy of Red Bull’s move.
Max Verstappen Defends Red Bull’s Move As Legal
While the team is under heavy criticism, Max Verstappen has justified the move, claiming it to be legal. During a media interaction, Verstappen dubbed the device ‘open source,’ as it was visible to everyone. Moreover, he explained that the team used it fairly and it was just a useful tool.
Therefore, the Dutchman was taken aback by the news that Red Bull was involved in this commotion; for them, it was just a normal tool. This revelation ahead of the Austin race could be a bad sign for the team. If found guilty, the RBR drivers might have to endure a penalty.