FIA Investigates Possible Water-Cooling Technique in F1 Tyres Aft

FIA Investigates Possible Water-Cooling Technique in F1 Tyres After Red Bull Raises Concerns

Formula 1 is dealing with a new technical controversy at the Brazilian Grand Prix as the FIA begins investigating whether certain teams may be using water injection to cool their tyres from the inside. The inquiry comes after Red Bull, engaged in a tight championship battle with McLaren, voiced suspicions that some rivals, potentially including McLaren, might be injecting water or another cooling liquid into tyres prior to fitting them onto cars.

The allegations surfaced following the Singapore Grand Prix when some team rims were reportedly seen containing liquid—a rare occurrence since teams typically aim to eliminate moisture from within tyres to achieve optimal peak pressure. Tyre pressure plays a crucial role in managing performance and wear, with even slight variations impacting grip and degradation rates. While F1 regulations do allow teams to minimize moisture, they are not permitted to introduce additional liquid into the tyres.

The theory behind this alleged technique is that water within the tyre could act as a coolant, potentially reducing internal temperatures and thereby slowing thermal degradation. In doing so, tyres would be able to maintain performance for longer, giving teams a significant advantage in race pace and tyre longevity.

This is the latest in a series of technical disputes between Red Bull and McLaren as competition heats up. Recently, McLaren’s innovative mini-DRS rear wing and Red Bull’s adjustable front bib design attracted scrutiny from the FIA. While neither case led to penalties or formal rule breaches, both prompted investigations due to perceived advantages the innovations offered.

For now, the FIA is examining whether these cooling techniques, if they exist, are within the current technical guidelines. Any confirmation of teams deliberately injecting liquids could lead to stricter regulations or penalties, as F1 strives to maintain a level playing field across the grid.

As the season progresses, it’s likely that the spotlight on technical innovation will only intensify, with teams constantly pushing the boundaries of the rulebook to gain an edge.