Norris drops....bombshell after FIA investigation.

Norris drops….bombshell after FIA investigation. Read more

McLaren driver Lando Norris has shed light on his team’s innovative approach this season, crediting the use of ‘mini-DRS flaps’ as a key factor in their success. Norris suggested that McLaren has been “smarter” than rivals Red Bull in utilizing this feature, providing them with a crucial edge in the Formula 1 championship battle. His comments came after the FIA conducted an investigation into McLaren’s rear wing, following concerns raised by Red Bull, but the part was found to be fully compliant with F1 regulations.

Red Bull, who currently trail McLaren by 41 points in the constructors’ standings, initially voiced their concerns after the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The team’s suspicions centered around McLaren’s rear wing design, which they believed might be offering their rivals an unfair aerodynamic advantage. However, after an official review by the FIA, McLaren’s car passed the scrutiny without issue.

The outcome of the investigation appears to have only strengthened McLaren’s momentum, particularly in light of their recent performance. Last weekend, the team showcased its championship potential in Singapore, securing a double podium finish with both Norris and his teammate Oscar Piastri standing on the podium. Norris claimed his third victory of the season, finishing ahead of Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, thereby closing the gap between them in the drivers’ standings to just 52 points.

Reflecting on McLaren’s recent success, Norris was quick to commend the efforts of his team behind the scenes. He emphasized how their strategic innovation has given them the upper hand against Red Bull, not only in terms of car performance but also in the broader championship picture. “We are doing a better job as a team right now because my car and our car is quicker than theirs,” Norris remarked. He attributed this to the team’s ingenuity, highlighting the introduction of “mini-DRS flaps” as one of the key technological advancements propelling them forward.

The DRS (Drag Reduction System) is a tool in F1 designed to enhance overtaking opportunities by reducing aerodynamic drag on a car’s rear wing. The system is typically activated within designated zones on the track, allowing the driver to gain additional speed during the race. McLaren’s implementation of ‘mini-DRS flaps’ seems to represent a unique twist on this concept, potentially allowing for subtle yet significant improvements in aerodynamic efficiency throughout different phases of a race.

Norris acknowledged the intense competition he faces from Verstappen in the quest for the drivers’ championship, but remains optimistic about his prospects. “I’m working my heart out, I’m working my butt off, to try and make sure that [a drivers’ championship] happens,” he said. The British driver remains focused on delivering consistent results as the season progresses, aware that Verstappen is equally determined to maintain his lead. “Verstappen’s trying to make sure it doesn’t happen, so we’ll have to wait and find out,” Norris added.

Meanwhile, his teammate Oscar Piastri continues to impress in his debut season, finishing third in Singapore to round off the podium. Piastri’s recent string of strong performances has contributed significantly to McLaren’s push in both the drivers’ and constructors’ standings.

As the F1 season intensifies, McLaren’s innovative edge and Norris’ determination could be the key to challenging Red Bull’s dominance. With only a few races remaining, the battle between Norris and Verstappen for the drivers’ championship promises to deliver more excitement in the coming weeks.