Zak Brown raises concerns about Red Bull’s compliance, questioning potential rule violations and seeking clarity from the FIA.
A great deal has been said in Austin over the past 24 hours regarding Red Bull’s front floor height adjustment system, specifically the T tray.
Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren, has voiced his frustration and suspicions on the matter. During his press conference, he extensively addressed the issue and how the FIA is handling the situation.
“Generally, running a car lower is a competitive advantage. It usually makes the car faster. The FIA, which I believe has done an excellent job in identifying a component unique to one team (Red Bull), based on what we’ve seen after examining all the open-source data, is that they are the only team capable of adjusting the ride height from inside the cockpit.
“Whether they’ve actually done it or not, I have no idea, but having the ability to do so raises questions. The regulations are very clear, and it’s a material breach if you alter your car in any way that isn’t authorised or done for the driver’s comfort—it’s strictly against the rules.
“So, from what I’ve read, they decided to place a seal on it. At the same time, I’ve heard from the team that it can’t be adjusted once the car is fully prepared for the race. However, the car isn’t always fully prepared in Parc Fermé, nor on Sunday morning. So, I believe that issue needs addressing. And why place a seal on something that supposedly cannot be adjusted in Parc Fermé or after? I still have questions, and I need to understand the situation better.”
Does he view Red Bull’s floor system as a genuine performance-enhancing mechanism, or is it merely off-track mind games? And with the rear wing also under scrutiny, is there any news on that front?
“Absolutely. Our rear wings have passed all tests. We’ve made minor adjustments, just as others have. So, that’s not an issue. I think, on the track, the Red Bull system, if—and I emphasise if—it’s being used improperly, would certainly provide a performance advantage. If not, then there’s no advantage. And I think that’s what we’re all trying to better understand.”
Does he believe the FIA’s seal will suffice while waiting for Red Bull to modify the part before the Brazilian Grand Prix, the deadline given by the FIA?
“You know, I’m not sure, as I’m not the most technical person in our racing team. I have confidence that the FIA will address the issue. I understand they’ll have to modify and change their car for the upcoming races. Exactly when? Brazil? Fine. So, I’m confident in the FIA’s ability to resolve this in the future. Our questions are more focused on what may have happened historically, to understand whether it was used improperly.”
What does the process now look like in terms of engaging with the FIA to gain clarity on the situation? Brown has previously warned of “massive consequences” if a violation is found this year.
“Well, I think that if you break the Parc Fermé rules, it’s a major infraction, and there should be consequences. If that has happened, it’s ultimately up to the FIA. We’ve seen this before in sports. We’ve seen it in our sport. We’ve seen it in baseball. We’ve seen it in football. You know, these things happen. So, let’s just trust the FIA to sort it out going forward. We’re merely asking questions, but it’s the FIA, as the regulator—who I think is doing an excellent job—who must take charge and find a transparent and satisfactory solution for all teams. I believe I’m not the only one concerned about what we’ve seen and heard.”
Does Brown think Red Bull managed to use and conceal the system? Does he have any evidence to back that up?
“Insofar as the system has the potential to be adjusted from inside the cockpit, I think that’s probably what needs reviewing. Could it have been hidden during Parc Fermé? That’s for the FIA to determine. What we already know is that drivers can’t do it from their seat—it would require some very long arms! So, it’s not something that can be done during running or on track.”
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McLaren’s Brown Doubts FIA Seal in Red Bull Controversy McLaren’s Brown Doubts FIA Seal in Red Bull Controversy
