The Formula 1 paddock is on fire after an explosive joint move by Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner and Mercedes boss Toto Wolff, both calling on the FIA to launch an immediate investigation into the legality of McLaren’s car following the Miami Grand Prix. The accusations come after McLaren’s stunning performance caught both teams—and fans—completely off guard.

What Sparked the Allegations?

At the Miami GP, McLaren delivered a blistering performance, with Lando Norris not only keeping up with the front runners but overtaking both Mercedes and Red Bull cars with relative ease. His race pace and acceleration out of corners raised eyebrows up and down the paddock.

According to Horner:

“The way that car was launching out of the slower corners—it doesn’t add up. We have concerns about certain components and aerodynamic elements that may be outside the regulations.”

Toto Wolff echoed similar sentiments:

“If they’ve found something legal, fine. But if not, the FIA needs to ensure a level playing field. Right now, it feels like we’re racing against something that isn’t entirely within the rules.”

Specific Points of Concern

While neither team publicly specified the exact part under suspicion, insider sources suggest that the focus is on McLaren’s rear suspension system and a brake duct design that may offer both aerodynamic and cooling advantages.

Rumors also swirl about the possible use of flexi-floor mechanisms—a hot topic in recent years due to their ability to subtly improve downforce without detection under normal scrutineering.

FIA’s Surprise Response

The FIA responded quickly but surprisingly downplayed the controversy. In a brief statement released on Tuesday following the Miami race, the governing body said:

“Following the concerns raised by multiple teams, the FIA has reviewed the components in question on the McLaren car. At this stage, we have found no evidence of rule violations and consider the matter closed unless new data is presented.”

This decision stunned much of the paddock. Many expected at least a technical directive or deeper investigation, especially with two powerhouse teams raising red flags.

McLaren Hits Back

McLaren, for their part, has strongly defended their car and performance. Team Principal Andrea Stella issued a sharp rebuttal:

“Our car complies fully with FIA regulations. These allegations are baseless and perhaps motivated more by surprise than substance. We’ve simply brought upgrades that are working as intended.”

Lando Norris, who delivered one of the best drives of his career in Miami, added:

“I’ve worked hard for this. The team’s worked hard. We’re fast because we earned it—not because we’re bending the rules.”

The Bigger Picture

This controversy has added even more spice to an already intense 2025 season. With Red Bull facing internal pressure, Mercedes still rebuilding, and McLaren rising, tensions are high.

Some pundits suggest that Red Bull and Mercedes are using politics to stall McLaren’s momentum:

“If you can’t beat them on track, beat them off it. That’s been the Formula 1 way for decades,” said one F1 analyst.

What Happens Next?

While the FIA may have closed the case for now, other teams are reportedly considering filing formal protests if McLaren continues to outperform expectations. Furthermore, technical directives often follow these types of allegations—even if no rule-breaking is found.

F1 fans can expect more pit-lane drama and paddock politics in the coming races, especially if McLaren continues to challenge for podiums and wins.

One thing’s for sure: Miami wasn’t just a race—it may have been the start of a new war in the ever-political world of Formula 1.

Stay tuned. This story is far from over.