The start of the 2025 Formula 1 season of McLaren was overshadowed by a shocking discovery: rival teams would have discovered the “thing” behind their higher performance, especially in hot weather. Rumors within the paddock suggest that McLaren would have used an innovative, but potentially controversial method, to manage the temperature of the rear tires. Accusations now surface, according to which the FIA ​​would have been aware of this phenomenon and would deliberately have abstained to take measures.

Although the exact details of McLaren’s alleged “tip” are still pending, speculation evoke a sophisticated system integrated into brake ducts, using “phase change materials” (PCM). These materials would absorb and dissipate the heat generated by the brakes in a very effective way, thus preventing an excessive heat transfer to the rims and now thus the tires at an optimal temperature longer. This would explain the exceptional management of tires by McLaren, a key factor in its success at the start of the season.

The accusation of concealment by the FIA ​​stems from information that rival teams, notably Red Bull, presented to the ruling body of convincing evidence of the unusual brake profiles of McLaren. Despite these data and the first investigations, the FIA ​​has so far judged that the McLaren system has in accordance with the regulations in force, a decision that has fueled suspicions and accusations of favoritism, or even reluctant to sanction a team with such good performance.

The controversy surrounding McLaren’s alleged advantage is doomed to intensify, the rival teams being apparently ready to deposit an official protest accompanied by more detailed evidence if the FIA ​​persists in ignoring their concerns. The pressure is now accentuated on the FIA, which must provide a clear and transparent explanation of McLaren’s advantage in terms of performance, or take decisive measures if regulatory offenses are ultimately confirmed. The integrity of the 2025 Formula 1 season could depend on the way in which this “shocking discovery” will be managed in the next races.