FIA hand down Red Bull verdict in illegality claim after HQ visit.

FIA hand down Red Bull verdict in illegality claim after HQ visit.

The FIA has officially concluded its investigation into Red Bull Racing’s front bib adjusting device, declaring the team has not breached any technical regulations. This device, which allows adjustments to the height of Red Bull’s front bib (or “tea tray”)—an essential aerodynamic element—had sparked controversy. Rival teams, including McLaren and Mercedes, raised concerns that the device could be used to alter the bib’s height between qualifying and race sessions, potentially violating the FIA’s parc ferme rules, which restrict modifications once a car enters a “closed park” setting.

The issue initially emerged at the United States Grand Prix in Austin, where the FIA acted quickly to prevent any potential manipulation of the adjuster while the car was in parc ferme. Despite applying a seal to ensure no adjustments could be made during this period, suspicions lingered. Competitors argued that further investigation was needed to determine if Red Bull had used the device in a way that could give them an advantage.

As a result, the FIA launched a more comprehensive inquiry following the Brazilian Grand Prix. Senior officials conducted a visit to Red Bull’s factory in Milton Keynes, where they meticulously examined the adjusting mechanism. This inspection process included reviewing data, analyzing design drawings, and interviewing team members involved in the design and function of the device.

In a detailed statement, the FIA clarified their investigative methods, stating that regular reviews and inspections are a standard part of their role in ensuring compliance with the technical, sporting, and financial regulations of Formula 1 teams. This protocol, they noted, includes both random spot-checks at the circuit and more thorough investigations at team factories when necessary. In this case, the investigation aimed to fully assess recent allegations against Red Bull’s front bib adjuster, and the FIA affirmed that, following their evaluation, no rule violations were detected.

The governing body’s findings also reinforced the stance they had taken during the Austin event, confirming that there was no indication of misconduct or regulatory breaches by Red Bull. This outcome marks the conclusion of the FIA’s inquiry, bringing clarity to the matter.

For Red Bull, this is a favorable resolution to a dispute that has generated significant attention and pressure from rival teams. For the FIA, this investigation reflects their commitment to maintaining transparency and fairness in upholding Formula 1 regulations. Red Bull’s front bib adjuster will no longer face scrutiny as the season approaches its final stages.

With the FIA’s verdict now established, the focus shifts back to the racing calendar as Formula 1 returns to the United States for the Las Vegas Grand Prix. This decision relieves Red Bull of any further technical disputes regarding the device, allowing the team to concentrate on its performance on track.

The FIA’s statement serves as a reminder that the regulatory body will continue to monitor all teams closely, using both at-track inspections and factory visits as necessary to ensure compliance with F1’s complex technical framework. This incident highlights the ongoing balance the FIA must maintain in addressing the ingenuity of F1 engineers while enforcing regulations that ensure fair competition across the grid.