BREAKING: FIA Releases Findings on McLaren Rear Brake Investigation After…read more
FIA Set to Release Findings of Forensic McLaren Brake Checks After Miami GP
The FIA is set to publish its findings next week following an intensive examination of McLaren’s rear brake system, conducted after the team’s dominant performance at the 2025 Miami Grand Prix.
As part of the FIA’s standard post-race technical protocol, a car from the top 10 finishers is randomly selected for a deeper inspection beyond the usual scrutineering. Following the Miami GP, it was McLaren’s MCL39 that was chosen for a forensic-level review, with particular attention paid to the rear braking system.
It has not yet been confirmed whether it was Lando Norris’ or Oscar Piastri’s car that underwent inspection. However, the choice has drawn attention, given McLaren’s impressive tyre management in the extreme heat of Miami, where they secured a commanding 1-2 finish.
According to Auto Motor und Sport, Red Bull is understood to have provided the FIA with thermal imaging data indicating that McLaren’s brakes were operating at significantly lower temperatures compared to rival cars. This may have prompted the FIA’s closer look, although the governing body routinely selects inspection targets based on a variety of factors, including performance trends, internal assessments, and competitor reports.
The FIA’s technical delegate, Jo Bauer, carried out a detailed review of McLaren’s braking system. So far, there has been no formal report to the stewards, suggesting that the car remains in compliance with Formula 1’s technical regulations.
The outcome of the investigation is expected to be released ahead of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix next week. Unless any violations are found, the FIA is likely to issue a straightforward confirmation of legality without publishing detailed findings.
Speaking after the race, McLaren Team Principal Andrea Stella praised the team’s engineering efforts, particularly in managing tyre temperatures and car cooling.
“When tyre overheating becomes a challenge, our car performs really well,” Stella told media. “That’s thanks to the excellent work by our engineers in understanding and designing around the factors that influence tyre behaviour.”
He added that McLaren’s strong thermal efficiency, despite a relatively compact bodywork design, has been a major factor in the team’s recent success in hot-weather conditions.
With no indication of rule-breaking so far, the FIA’s report is expected to validate what many see as a technical masterclass from McLaren—a team now setting the pace in both championships.
