Red Bull confirms last-minute changes to RB20 after rivals lodged a complaint with the FIA

Red Bull Racing have confirmed last-minute changes to their RB20 cars, driven by Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez, following concerns raised by rival Formula 1 teams to the FIA. These teams suggested that Red Bull may have been using a “trick” regarding their car’s set-up, prompting a closer inspection by the governing body.

The allegations related to possible unauthorized adjustments to the ride height between qualifying and the race, a move that would violate strict parc fermé rules. Although no wrongdoing was discovered, Red Bull acknowledged the presence of the front bib release component and agreed to comply with future regulations as set out in discussions with the FIA.

The FIA ​​responded to rivals’ concerns by introducing stricter testing protocols. They clarified that while no team exploited the alleged fix, measures were strengthened to prevent regulatory violations.

The core of the problem lies with the parc fermé rules, which prohibit any change to a car’s setup after qualifying. Allegations suggested that Red Bull’s RB20 may have had the ability to change ride height after qualifying, which would have breached these regulations.

Red Bull has responded in communications with the FIA ​​​​and openly admitted the existence of the space for the front bumper, which is located on the floor of the car. A team spokesperson said:

“Yes, it exists, although it is no longer accessible once the car is fully assembled and ready to drive. In the many correspondence we have with the FIA, this element has been discussed and we have agreed on a plan for the future.”

Red Bull has also focused on aerodynamic changes, such as adjusting the mirror mounts and replacing the halo-mounted canard-style winglet with a vertical fin on top of the sidepods. These changes are intended to optimize airflow around the car and improve overall performance. In addition, Red Bull has implemented track-specific upgrades, tailoring the setup to the unique demands of the Circuit of the Americas.

1. Max Verstappen – 331 points
2. Lando Norris – 279 points
3. Charles Leclerc – 245 points
4. Oscar Piastri – 237 points
5. Carlos Sainz – 190 points
6. Lewis Hamilton – 174 points
7. George Russell – 155 points
8. Sergio Perez – 144 points
9. Fernando Alonso – 62 points
10. Nico Hulkenberg – 24 points
11. Lance Stroll – 24 points
12. Yuki Tsunoda – 22 points
13. Alex Albon – 12 points
14. Daniel Ricciardo – 12 points
15. Pierre Gasly – 8 points
16. Oliver Bearman – 7 points
17. Kevin Magnussen – 6 points
18. Esteban Ocon – 5 points
19. Franco Colapinto – 4 points
20. Zhou Guanyu – 0 points
21. Logan Sargeant – 0 points
22. Valtteri Bottas – 0 points