FIA set to release findings of forensic McLaren br.....read more

FIA set to release findings of forensic McLaren br…..read more

Following the conclusion of the 2024 Miami Grand Prix, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) is preparing to release the findings of an in-depth technical inspection conducted on McLaren’s MCL39 Formula 1 car. This examination went beyond the typical post-race scrutineering process and focused specifically on the car’s rear braking system, which has recently drawn attention from rival teams due to McLaren’s notable performance gains, particularly in tyre temperature management.

In Formula 1, it is standard procedure for the FIA to carry out comprehensive checks on randomly selected cars after each Grand Prix. These checks are conducted independently of the regular scrutineering process, which every car undergoes to ensure basic compliance with technical regulations. The more extensive checks are overseen by the FIA’s technical delegate, Jo Bauer, and usually involve stripping down key components to ensure legality and conformity with FIA standards.

During the Miami weekend, it was McLaren’s turn to be scrutinized in greater detail. Although it is not yet confirmed whether it was Lando Norris’ or Oscar Piastri’s MCL39 that was chosen for inspection, one of the two chassis from the top 10 finishers was pulled aside for what is often referred to as a forensic-level analysis. These deep-dives serve not only to uphold the integrity of the competition but also to discourage teams from attempting any technical grey-area innovations that might confer an unfair advantage.

The component that drew specific focus during this inspection was the rear brake system. The FIA’s technical team is believed to have disassembled and thoroughly evaluated the design, structure, and function of the rear braking components. While brake systems are critical performance elements on any Formula 1 car, McLaren’s recent strides in tyre management have particularly intrigued competitors. The British outfit has been consistently effective at keeping tyre temperatures within the optimal range, even under challenging conditions—an advantage that has translated into improved performance in both qualifying and race stints.

The inspection in Miami is similar in nature to one that took place earlier in the season during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah. On that occasion, Max Verstappen’s Red Bull was the car randomly selected for technical evaluation. The FIA’s inspection included his RB20’s engine air intake, oil and coolant systems, charge air cooling setup, and related electrical connections to the standardized ECU. These types of random and detailed inspections are not uncommon and are essential in maintaining a level playing field across the grid.

Rival teams are believed to be particularly interested in McLaren’s brake duct design and how it may be contributing to more stable and controlled thermal behavior across the tyres. Brake ducts not only serve their core function of cooling the braking components but also influence airflow around the car and play a significant role in tyre temperature regulation. If McLaren’s system has introduced a novel solution within the boundaries of the regulations, it could explain their recent uptick in competitive form, most notably in how their cars have performed consistently across a range of track temperatures and conditions.

As of now, the FIA has not made any formal announcement regarding the outcome of the inspection, but the results are expected to be disclosed soon. These findings will be critical not only for verifying the legality of McLaren’s setup but could also spark further technical discussions up and down the paddock. If the MCL39’s brake system is deemed fully compliant, it may serve as a benchmark for other teams looking to enhance their own tyre management capabilities without crossing regulatory lines.

In sum, the FIA’s intensified scrutiny of McLaren’s rear brake system underscores both the highly technical nature of modern Formula 1 and the governing body’s ongoing commitment to fair competition. The outcome of this inspection could influence not only McLaren’s rivals but potentially shape future regulatory interpretations in this increasingly competitive 2024 season.