Formula 1 teams alleged Red Bull of driving 'illegal car' during recent race weekends

In the lead-up to the weekend's race at Circuit of the Americas, Formula 1 is buzzing with rumours that Red Bull Racing might be using a controversial "trick" to gain an advantage. The allegation suggests that Red Bull could be altering the ride height of their car between qualifying and race day. Although the team denies these claims, the Federation International de Automobile (FIA) is taking extra precautions to ensure no such manipulation occurs.

This rumour centres around the T-tray or front bib, a crucial part of the car’s underbody. Once cars enter Parc Ferme after qualifying, F1 regulations prohibit any changes to the vehicle, aside from minor aerodynamic adjustments to the front wing. Any violations of this rule could result in penalties, either before or after the race. According to De Telegraaf, several teams suspect that Red Bull has been altering the ride height of the T-tray.

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Despite the lack of direct evidence, the FIA has taken the concerns seriously. The organization confirmed that it has not identified any team using a system to adjust the front bib but has increased its oversight as a precaution. "While we have not received any indication of any team employing such a system, the FIA remains vigilant in our ongoing efforts to enhance the policing of the sport," the FIA stated in response to the rumours.

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The FIA has now implemented stricter checks for the upcoming race, aiming to close any potential loopholes that could allow teams to modify their cars after the official lockdown period. "As part of this, we have implemented procedural adjustments to ensure that front bib clearance cannot be easily modified," the federation added.

These measures come after some teams brought the issue to the FIA's attention, expressing concerns about potential exploits. While no concrete evidence has surfaced to confirm these allegations, the scrutiny placed on Red Bull—one of F1’s dominant forces—adds tension to an already high-stakes weekend.

If any violations are found, severe consequences could follow, further stirring the competitive dynamics in the championship battle. With the FIA's extra vigilance, all eyes will be on the technical checks this weekend to see if the rumour holds any weight—or if it's just another distraction in the world of F1 mind games.