Red Bull found itself under scrutiny ahead of the United States Grand Prix weekend – an alleged feature on the RB20 was suspected to be in violation of the regulations. However, it turned out to be a tempest in a teapot; the car was simply adjusted. McLaren saw this as an opportunity to drag their rival through the mud. Ferrari team boss Fred Vasseur sees it as the pot calling the kettle black.
When news of an ‘illegal’ feature on Red Bull’s RB20 came to light, McLaren CEO Zak Brown immediately sought confrontation. “The FIA must investigate this thoroughly,” he demanded during an official press conference. “We are undoubtedly dealing with a significant violation – what Red Bull is doing is strictly prohibited.”
Christian Horner was not amused by Zak Brown’s interference. “Paranoia,” he called the American’s comments. “I feel like he’s trying to distract us from what’s going on at McLaren. Is he trying to start a fire somewhere else?” At Ferrari, who are closely trailing these two contenders in the constructors’ championship, they also find Brown’s reaction noteworthy.
Vasseur Claims: ‘McLaren’s Wing is Also Illegal’
“If Red Bull really did modify the car while parc fermé rules were in effect, it would be more than just cheating,” team boss Fred Vasseur told the Italian branch of Sky Sports. “It would really cause a huge issue. But I’m not familiar with the details. I trust that the FIA will do its job.”
While McLaren has clearly expressed their annoyance over this latest technical controversy, Vasseur wants to point out that they too have used controversial parts. “I also didn’t think the wing that Daniel Ricciardo used in Baku was legal,” he said. The so-called flexi-wing of the papayas was said to bend too far under aerodynamic pressure. The FIA thoroughly investigated the part at the time, but no penalty was issued.
