Barcelona, ​​Spain – Formula 1 is on fire again. This time, the fire was ignited by an explosive controversy between Red Bull Racing and McLaren, after the Austrian team accused the British team of using an “illegal front wing” in the last Grand Prix. However, McLaren CEO Zak Brown has not remained silent and has responded with a harshness that has shaken the entire paddock. To add fuel to the fire, the FIA ​​has just released new evidence that could completely change the course of this controversy.

Cheat or innovation?

It all began after qualifying for the GP, where the McLaren’s performance surprised even the most optimistic engineers. According to internal sources at Red Bull, the MCL38’s front wing design allegedly “flexed” under certain conditions, providing an aerodynamic advantage that they considered “outside of technical legality.” The Milton Keynes team presented its suspicions to the FIA, requesting a formal investigation.

Zak Brown’s response was immediate and fierce. In an official statement, the American manager lashed out at Red Bull:

“These accusations are not only false, but deeply hypocritical. Red Bull should be the last team to talk about technical cheating. We are within the regulations, and we will prove it.”

The FIA ​​enters the game

Given the magnitude of the dispute, the International Automobile Federation (FIA) conducted an exhaustive analysis of McLaren’s front wing. This Thursday, F1’s governing body released an official statement ruling out any illegality in the design of the British car.

“Following detailed inspection and controlled flex testing, it has been determined that the component complies with the requirements of the 2025 season’s technical regulations,” the FIA ​​stated.

In addition, the federation attached comparative images and technical data to clear up any doubts. This ruling upholds McLaren’s position and calls into question the media pressure strategy employed by Red Bull.

Brown’s counterattack: “This has to stop”

With the FIA’s backing in hand, Zak Brown raised the bar even further. In a subsequent press conference, he declared:

“This type of psychological warfare only tarnishes the sport. Red Bull has crossed a line. We will not tolerate our integrity being questioned without real evidence. We are open to competition, but with clear rules and mutual respect.”

Brown also called on Liberty Media and F1 management to implement sanctions for unfounded allegations , claiming that such situations damage the championship’s image with fans and sponsors.

Red Bull’s response?

At press time, Red Bull had not issued a further statement following the FIA’s ruling, but sources close to the team indicated they were not satisfied with the outcome. Helmut Marko, a senior advisor, suggested to an Austrian channel that “the FIA’s explanations do not dispel all doubts,” leaving open the possibility of future appeals or further inspections.

A dangerous precedent

This incident recalls old disputes in the sport, where the line between innovation and technical cheating has been constantly challenged. What happened with McLaren could set a key precedent for how suspicions between teams are handled, especially in such a tight season where every tenth of a second counts.

Social networks explode

Meanwhile, social media exploded with thousands of messages supporting McLaren and criticizing Red Bull. The hashtag #GoZakGo trended on Twitter, while several former drivers and commentators backed the American’s position.

Among the most notable, former champion Damon Hill wrote:

“Zak Brown is doing the right thing. A team can’t be allowed to make unfounded accusations just because it can’t stand being competed against.”

Conclusion:

What seemed like a simple technical complaint has turned into a full-throttle battle for reputation. McLaren is holding its head high for now, but the war is far from over. With more than half a season left, this confrontation promises to continue fueling headlines and debates around the world.

 Are you on McLaren’s side or do you think Red Bull has its reasons? Let us know your thoughts and share this article if you also think F1 needs more transparency and less drama!