FIA FINALLY PUNISHES McLaren: Penalty Imposed for Breaching F1 Rules Ahead Singapore GP, Fans Say It’s Too Late
After weeks of controversy and mounting pressure from rival teams, the FIA has finally issued a penalty to McLaren for violating strict F1 regulations ahead of the Singapore GP. The breach, involving McLaren’s rear wing design, has been a focal point of debate, with Red Bull and Ferrari expressing strong dissatisfaction over its legality. However, fans are saying the penalty comes too late, as the issue has been ongoing for several races.
Max Verstappen, one of the first to call attention to the rear wing, commented on how social media played a role in exposing the violation. “I’ve seen the footage, and that’s the good thing about social media, right? Everyone had videos ready. Clearly, it was moving when the car was at high speed. Whether the design is clever or not, it’s up to the FIA to decide if it’s legal. Baku wasn’t the first time it was used,” Verstappen remarked, underscoring the need for clarity on how much wing flexibility is allowed under the regulations.
Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc also voiced concerns, though in a more reserved manner. “I think Fred [Vasseur] will explain it in more detail, but from what I know, at the very least, it’s controversial. I’ll leave it there and let Fred comment further,” Leclerc said, suggesting the issue might be bigger than what’s already been discussed.
Sergio “Checo” Pérez didn’t mince words in his criticism, calling McLaren’s car “clearly outside the regulations.” He added, “It’s an illegal car. But it seems like it’s been allowed. I’m quite surprised.”
While the FIA has finally taken action, many feel the punishment should have come earlier, especially considering McLaren’s use of the rear wing in multiple races, including Baku. Fans and rival teams are now questioning whether the delay in the penalty has already impacted the championship standings, making the punishment feel like too little, too late.
With the Singapore GP fast approaching, McLaren’s penalty will undoubtedly shake up the race weekend. However, the broader questions about fairness and the FIA’s enforcement of regulations remain a hot topic in the F1 community, as teams continue to push the boundaries of what’s allowed under the sport’s technical guidelines.
