Red Bull wants FIA clarification over Mercedes' use of DAS

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As predicted, Red Bull will query the FIA on the legality of Mercedes' Dual Axis Steering system which the German outfit used in free practice in Austria on Friday.

RBR team boss Christian Horner warned earlier this week that there would be "question marks" over the legality of Mercedes' novel device which allows drivers to adjust the toe-in setting of the W11's front wheels, a ploy that is believed to deliver a tyre temperature and aero gain.

Speaking to Sky Sports F1 during Friday's mornings FP1 session, Horner made clear that he would seek clarification from F1's governing body on the use of DAS by Mercedes.

"We'll wait to see if it is fitted to their cars," Horner said. "Obviously it's a complicated system, it's a clever system.

"We're after some clarifications from the FIA, and start raising some questions about it."

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After the system was uncovered in pre-season testing at Barcelona, the FIA moved to ban DAS for 2021. However, the device has been permitted under this year's technical regulations.

Questioned about Red Bull's legal challenge of DAS, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff urged the Milton Keynes-based outfit to take into account Formula 1's current "sensitive" situation, and think twice before potentially undermining the sport's long-awaited return to action with a legal row.

"All teams are pretty much aware that we are in a sensitive situation with going racing," said Wolff.

"It's the first race, and I think on one side, it's fair enough to seek clarification, [but] on the other side we are aware that we don't want to end up with a big debate on Sunday.

"I think Christian [Horner] is going to take the right actions. Controversy and different judgement on engineering innovation has always been a part of Formula 1, and this is what's to be expected in a way and it's part of the risk."

However, if Red Bull piles on the pressure, Mercedes will hold its own on the matter insists Wolff, as it believes its system is absolutely legal.

"I respect Christian's position," he said. "Clarification is always good. We think we are on the right side. There was a lot of talking and exchange with the FIA.

"That is the reason why we have it on the car, so we will both bring our arguments forward and then let's see."

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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.