Red Bull confirms last-minute changes to RB20 after rivals complain to FIA

Red Bull Racing has confirmed last-minute changes to its RB20 cars driven by Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez after rival Formula 1 teams raised concerns with the FIA. These teams suspected that Red Bull may have used a “trick” in the tuning of their car, leading to a closer inspection by the governing body.

The allegations centered on potentially illegal ride height adjustments between qualifying and the race, a practice that would violate strict parc fermé rules. Although no wrongdoing was found, Red Bull acknowledged the existence of the front number release component and agreed to comply with future regulations in accordance with discussions with the FIA.

The FIA ​​responded to competitors' concerns by introducing stricter testing protocols. They clarified that while no team took advantage of the alleged solution, measures were strengthened to prevent regulatory violations.

The crux of the problem lies in the parc fermé rules, which prohibit any changes to a car's setup after qualifying. Allegations suggest that Red Bull's RB20 may have had the opportunity to change the ride height after qualifying, which would violate these regulations.

Red Bull has responded in its communication with the FIA ​​and openly admitted that there is a front number release component located at the bottom of the car. A spokesperson for the team said:

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

Red Bull has also focused on aerodynamic tweaks, such as adjusting the mirror struts and replacing the halo-mounted canard-style winglet with a vertical fin on the sidepods. These changes aim to optimize airflow around the car and improve its overall performance. In addition, Red Bull has implemented track-specific upgrades and adapted its setup to the specific requirements 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 Hülkenberg – 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