Formula 1 2025 is hot, and not only because of the fights on the track. After the revelations about McLaren’s innovative brake system, which Red Bull and the rest of the starter field were speechless, a new chapter of technological intrigue is open. Under the headline “It’s over!” is the world of motorsport on the edge of a fundamental turn, with McLaren in the center of the controversy about its obvious dominance in tire management. But is this brake knitting a stroke of genius or a maneuver on the border to legality? Let us disguise this drama that captivates the attention of the fans.
McLaren, the master of tires
Since the beginning of the 2025 season, McLaren has proven that it is the team to beat. Her MCL39, dangers of Oscar Piatri and Lando Norris, showed excellent performance, especially in races with high temperatures and tire wear, such as the Miami Grand Prix, where they achieved an overwhelming double victory and left their rivals for more than 30 seconds. The key to her success: almost magical tire management, which team boss Andrea Stella refers to the “dark art” of engineering.
The focus of the controversy is the brake ventilation shafts of McLaren. According to reports, unusual “cold areas” on the rear brake drums of the MCL39 are reported by Red Bull, which suggests that McLaren has found a way to keep the tires at optimal temperature and thus prevent overheating. This discovery has led to speculation and theories that range from the use of phase change materials (PCM) to sophisticated aerodynamic designs to control the air flow.
Red Bull defends itself, but the FIA falls its judgment
Red Bull boss Christian Horner did not feel idle. His team has carried out research and analyzed the tires of McLaren during pit stops using thermal imaging cameras. At first, Red Bull suspected that McLaren might splash water into the tires, a theory that was denied by Pirelli and the FIA after extensive investigations. McLaren-CEO ZAK Brown even made fun of these allegations in Miami by drinking a bottle with the inscription “Reifen Water” in a gesture that went viral.
Following the Miami Grand Prix, the FIA carried out a detailed inspection of the McLaren braking system. The result: everything was fine. Report onThe RaceAccording to no irregularities, McLaren’s design was praised as “simply brilliant”. However, a new theory has appeared that indicates the possible use of phase change materials, absorb and release thermal energy. Although this idea was fascinating, it was rejected by the FIA because the regulations expressly prohibit such technologies for cooling brakes or tires.
A technological chess matt?
The dominance of McLaren is not only in its brakes. Factors such as aerodynamics, chassis kinematics and energy generation tactics also play a crucial role. However, the brake system inspired the imagination of the paddock. Red Bull is already working under the direction of the technical director Pierre Waché on a design inspired by McLaren with new cooling channels and brake gloconal configurations that could celebrate its premiere in Imola. But copying is not that easy: the limited budget and the need to prepare cars for 2026 make the task more difficult.
McLaren continues its way undeterred. Stella has emphasized that her advantage is the result of years of development and not a single “trick”. With five victories in the first six races in 2025, the Woking team is able to secure both championships. But the question remains: Can Red Bull, Ferrari or Mercedes ventilate the McLaren secret before it is too late?
The effects on fans and social media
This scandal has put social media into turmoil and the fans debate whether McLaren is an innovative genius or moves in a gray area of the rules. The articles on X show polarization: some praise McLaren’s creativity, while others, especially Red Bull fans, demand more clarity from the FIA. Zak Brown’s ridicule and Horner’s intensity have produced memes and discussions, which ensure that this topic remains trendy.
In a sport in which the details are important, McLaren has laid the bar higher. While the season goes towards the Grand Prix of the Emilia Romagna, all eyes will be directed back on Red Bull and his attempt. Will you succeed in revealing McLaren’s secret, or will the Papaya team continue to dominate Formula 1? Share your thoughts in the comments and participate in the entertainment. The fight is far from over!
