Red Bull admits modifications to RB20 after talks with FIA

Red Bull admits modifications to RB20 after talks with FIA

Red Bull Racing has acknowledged that it made modifications to the cars of Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez following discussions with the FIA, as reported by the BBC. This decision comes in response to concerns raised by rival teams about a potential “trick” that the team might have been using to manipulate the cars’ ride height. The FIA has since responded by implementing stricter testing protocols, although it clarified that there has been no evidence indicating that any team, including Red Bull, was actively using this controversial solution.

The issue revolves around a mechanism that could theoretically adjust the front ride height of the car between qualifying sessions and the actual race. Under the rules of parc fermé, such adjustments are prohibited once the car has been set up and is ready for competition. The FIA’s announcement of stricter testing measures reflects its commitment to ensuring compliance with the regulations, especially given the heightened scrutiny on the competitive practices in Formula 1.

According to the BBC’s report, Red Bull has confirmed the existence of this adjustment mechanism on their RB20 model. The team indicated that this device, while present, is not accessible once the car is fully assembled and prepared for racing. A spokesperson for Red Bull acknowledged the discussions held with the FIA, noting, “Yes, (the device) exists, although it is inaccessible once the car is fully assembled and ready to run. In the numerous correspondence we have with the FIA, this part came up, and we have agreed on a plan going forward.”

The specific component in question relates to the “front bib clearance,” situated in the middle of the car’s floor at the front. This area has become a focal point in the ongoing conversation about compliance with technical regulations in Formula 1. The FIA has emphasized that any modifications that would enable teams to manipulate their cars’ setups in a way that contravenes the parc fermé rules are strictly forbidden. Although the governing body has yet to catch any teams utilizing such devices, it has announced that its inspection procedures