Red Bull has been cleared by the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile) over the legality of its front bib ride height adjuster, a device that sparked controversy and accusations of foul play from rival teams.
The controversy erupted ahead of the US Grand Prix weekend, with concerns raised that the device could be exploited under parc fermé conditions, which strictly prohibits car modifications between qualifying and the race.
Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner vehemently denied any wrongdoing, calling the accusations from rival teams “paranoia” and a “distraction tactic.”
He emphasized that the device had been available for inspection by the FIA for over three years and was listed among a library of open-source components accessible to all teams.
“It would be easier to adjust a rear roll bar than it would be to get to that component,” Horner remarked.
The FIA conducted an inspection of the system in Max Verstappen’s car on Friday, ultimately placing a seal on the adjuster. While downplaying the controversy as “a bit of moaning from one of our rivals,” Horner suggested the move was intended to appease rival teams’ anxieties.
FIA single-seater director Nikolas Tombazis echoed Horner’s sentiment, stating, “It’s certainly not a story from now on.”
He acknowledged the competitiveness of the championship can breed suspicion but declared the matter closed.
Red Bull appears unfazed by the controversy, confident in the legality of their car and dismissing the concerns as unfounded.
