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ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - NOVEMBER 24: Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing and Jos Verstappen look on in the garage during practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Abu Dhabi at Yas Marina Circuit on November 24, 2023 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202311240653 // Usage for editorial use only //
Jos Verstappen Slams FIA for Delayed Front Wing Clampdown, Claims McLaren Gained Advantage
Jos Verstappen has strongly criticized the FIA’s decision to delay action on flexible front wings, calling the governing body’s approach “so stupid” after McLaren secured another dominant 1-2 finish at the Miami Grand Prix.
Red Bull has grown increasingly suspicious of McLaren’s car this season, raising concerns over various elements including the aerodynamics and tire strategies of the MCL39. One major area of contention is the flexibility of McLaren’s wingsparticularly the front wing.
“If they wait until the eighth race to act, then the teams using it have already had the advantage,” Verstappen said. “It’s just ridiculous not to enforce the rules from the start.”
Mounting Tensions Over Technical Grey Areas
While the FIA introduced stricter rear wing tests at the beginning of the season, similar measures for front wings won’t come into effect until the Spanish Grand Prix. Verstappen believes this delay has allowed McLaren to benefit unfairly in the early rounds of the championship.
Tensions have also spiked over alleged tire-cooling tactics. Red Bull reportedly suspects McLaren of applying small amounts of water during pit stops to manage tire temperatures a theory they’ve attempted to verify using thermal imaging cameras.
In response, McLaren CEO Zak Brown challenged rival teams to make formal protests if they believe rules are being breached.
“If a team wants to protest, they should do it properly—submit it officially and put up the required deposit,” Brown said, indirectly referencing Red Bull.
FIA Faces Scrutiny
The ongoing controversy has once again put the FIA under the spotlight, with calls for clearer and more timely regulation enforcement. Critics argue that delayed crackdowns allow teams to exploit loopholes before action is taken, skewing the competitive balance.
As the F1 grid heads to Spain, all eyes will be on whether new front wing tests shift the competitive dynamic—and whether Red Bull’s suspicions finally lead to an official protest.
