Sport nationRED BULL TAKES AIM AT MCLAREN AND FERRARI OVER FLEXI-WING CONTROVERSY
A simmering dispute in the world of Formula 1 has reached boiling point, with Red Bull lodging an official complaint with the FIA against rivals McLaren and Ferrari. The controversy centers on the use of flexi-wings, a design feature that has been at the heart of a long-running debate over its legality.
According to reports, Red Bull’s Technical Director, Pierre Wache, has expressed his concerns to stewards, prompting the team to submit an “official and accusatory file” to the FIA. The governing body is now set to visit both McLaren and Ferrari to inspect their practices and determine whether they are in compliance with the regulations.
The flexi-wing controversy has been a major talking point in the F1 paddock, with Red Bull taking issue with the front wing flexibility displayed by McLaren and Ferrari. The debate has also extended to rear wings, with McLaren’s configurations on low-drag circuits believed to be pushing the boundaries of legality.
Wache has been vocal in his criticism of McLaren’s design, stating: “I think it’s so difficult to develop that I think some grey areas are so attractive as an engineer. When you see the rear wing of McLaren, I’m sorry, but it’s more than grey, and they use it for multiple races.”
The FIA has taken steps to address the issue, introducing new camera and deflection tests to monitor compliance with the regulations. Specifically-mounted cameras will be placed on the front and rear of the cars to detect any potential infringements, while more stringent deflection testing will be implemented on rear wings.
McLaren Team Principal Andrea Stella has played down the significance of the changes, stating: “We don’t have to make many adjustments at all for the start of the season.” However, the controversy is likely to rumble on, with Red Bull’s complaint set to spark a detailed investigation by the FIA.
As the debate continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the FIA is determined to ensure that all teams comply with the regulations and maintain a level playing field. The outcome of Red Bull’s complaint will be eagerly anticipated by fans and teams alike, as the world of F1 waits with bated breath to see how this contentious issue will be resolved.
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