F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Flexing wing an 'optical illusion' says Red Bull

Red Bull denies its new front wing design is teetering on the brink of legality, saying claims that the component is flexing under stress are untrue.

Red Bull's upgraded RB13 delivered a good performance in the opening day of running at the Hungarian Grand Prix.

But the car's new front wing, penned by design guru Adrian Newey, has attracted a lot of attention from rival teams and the FIA amid suggestions that flexing - outlawed by F1's technical rules- could be occurring.

The rumors nevertheless prompted a minor redesign, according to Red Bull engineer Paul Monaghan.

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"We took the brace (modification) out and put it back in again," Paul Monaghan said in Hungary yesterday.

"In our opinion the wing is entirely legal. We satisfy every FIA requirement."

Monaghan says any suggestion the wing is obviously flexing is just an "optical illusion".

"If you had more knowledge of the design of the wing and the shape I think you'd realise it's nothing more than a storm in a teacup," he insisted

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.