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FIA Clears McLaren Over Alleged Tire Cooling Trick Amid Rising Dominance

The FIA has officially cleared McLaren of any rule-breaking following suspicions the team may have used a banned tire-cooling method during the 2025 Miami Grand Prix. After a thorough post-race investigation, Formula One’s governing body found no evidence of wrongdoing, quelling weeks of speculation about McLaren’s surging form this season.

The controversy erupted after Oscar Piastri’s dominant victory in Miami, which extended his lead in the Drivers’ Championship, while teammate Lando Norris started from the front row. The team’s stellar performance triggered murmurs in the paddock, with rival outfits hinting McLaren may have exploited a loophole in Article 11.5 of the 2025 Technical Regulations. The rule strictly prohibits the use of fluids or refrigeration systems to alter tyre temperatures after wheels are fitted.

McLaren’s CEO Zak Brown stoked the rumors with a tongue-in-cheek gesture—appearing trackside with a transparent bottle labeled “tire water,” a mocking nod to the whispers circulating among competitors. The moment went viral, but also drew increased scrutiny from rival teams and the FIA.

In response, the FIA conducted a random inspection of Piastri’s chassis (number 81) in the lead-up to the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix. Inspectors carried out a full teardown of the car’s wheel assemblies and brake ducts, seeking any sign of unauthorized cooling mechanisms.

The detailed analysis revealed no irregularities. Officials found no channels, reservoirs, or materials capable of delivering chilled liquids to the tires. All components were in full compliance with Articles 3.13 and 11.5 of the technical regulations.

“The inspection found all components to be in full conformance with the 2025 Formula One Technical Regulations,” the FIA confirmed in a statement, effectively clearing McLaren of any suspicion.

The verdict is a significant win for the Woking-based team, which has resurged as a championship contender following the introduction of its upgraded MCL38B chassis. Technical director Peter Prodromou has insisted McLaren’s gains are the result of improved aerodynamic and mechanical performance—not regulatory grey areas.

With the investigation closed, Piastri’s Miami victory stands, and McLaren retains its lead in both championships heading into Imola. For rivals, the episode serves as a reminder that light-hearted mockery can trigger full-blown investigations.

As teams prepare for the cooler conditions at Imola, the challenge now shifts from rumor to results—with McLaren firmly ahead, and their “tire water” saga officially put to rest.