F1 scandal: Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari under FIA investigation after Red Bull complaint
The Formula 1 season is heating up with a new controversy involving Lewis Hamilton and his future team, Ferrari. According to recent reports, the International Automobile Federation (FIA) has launched a comprehensive investigation into the Briton’s car following a complaint filed by Red Bull regarding the design of its rear wings.
Red Bull, a dominant team in recent years thanks to the talent of Max Verstappen and the engineering of Adrian Newey, has expressed serious doubts about the legality of the rear wings on the Ferrari that Hamilton will drive in 2025. According to the Austrian team, the SF-24’s aerodynamic structure could be infringing FIA technical regulations, providing an undue aerodynamic advantage on straights and high-speed corners.
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner told the media: “We want the rules to be clear and fair for everyone. If there is any irregularity in Ferrari’s design, the FIA must address it immediately.”
▶️ Ferrari responds to accusations
From Maranello, the reaction was swift. Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur called the accusations “unfounded” and asserted that his team always operates within the limits of the regulations.
“Our designs have passed all FIA inspections. If Red Bull is looking to destabilize us with complaints, they won’t succeed,” Vasseur said at a recent press conference. He also emphasized that any modifications to the car have been made in strict accordance with Formula 1 guidelines.
▶️ Hamilton at the center of the hurricane
Lewis Hamilton, who currently races for Mercedes but has already signed a contract with Ferrari until 2025, has largely stayed out of the controversy. However, sources close to the driver say he is closely monitoring the situation.
“Lewis doesn’t want any distractions at this point in the season. He’s focused on his current performance with Mercedes, but he’s clearly aware of everything happening with Ferrari,” said a member of his entourage.
This controversy could put Hamilton in a difficult position, as his move to Ferrari is one of the most shocking F1 news stories of recent times. The possibility that his future team is under investigation could affect the Briton’s confidence in his next project.
▶️ The FIA investigation: Could there be sanctions?
The FIA has confirmed that it is evaluating the complaints filed by Red Bull and that a detailed review of the Ferrari car will be conducted. Under the regulations, if any irregularities are found with the rear wings, Ferrari could face severe penalties, including the deduction of points from the constructors’ championship or even disqualification from some races.
This wouldn’t be the first time Red Bull and Ferrari have been involved in a legal battle over technical issues. In 2019, Ferrari was accused of tampering with its fuel system, which led to a secret investigation and technical restrictions imposed by the FIA in subsequent seasons.
▶️ Impact on the season and the future of F1
This controversy could not only affect Ferrari’s performance this season, but also the relationship between the teams on the grid. Red Bull has been a staunch advocate of transparency in car development, while Ferrari has worked to modernize its technology to regain its position as a title contender.
If the FIA finds irregularities, it could set an important precedent in the regulation of aerodynamic designs, something that would directly impact the evolution of F1 cars in the future.
▶️ Conclusion: A battle beyond the track
Formula 1 is not only a sport of speed, but also a game of strategy on and off the track. As the FIA investigation continues, the F1 world is closely watching this new dispute between Red Bull and Ferrari unfold. What is clear is that the 2024 season is far from boring, and these kinds of controversies only increase the tension and excitement for fans.
Will Ferrari be sanctioned or will it be able to defend itself against the accusations? The answer could change the fate of the championship.
