McLaren CEO Zak Brown has called on Red Bull to sign a legally binding affidavit confirming that its front bib ride height device has never been used illegally.
The F1 paddock at the US Grand Prix was abuzz last weekend with controversy as the FIA investigated Red Bull's ride height adjustment system amid suspicions that the team may have exploited the device under parc fermé conditions which would constitute a sever breach of the regulations.
Brown called on the FIA to conduct an in-depth investigation into the system and into its potential clandestine use.
While the governing body’s technical team, led by its head of single-seater matters Nikolas Tombazis, thoroughly inspected the device, it ruled out further action, clearing Red Bull of any wrong doing and declaring the case closed.
However, it also admitted that it could not prove that Red Bull had never exploited the device illicitly.
Brown isn’t ready to let the issue rest just yet, suggesting a legal approach to fully resolving the controversy.
“The suggestion in the pit lane from a handful of people is that it has been used in that manner, so the only way to bottom it out is the old-fashioned ‘sign here’, stating what has gone on,” Brown told the Daily Mail.
“I know if I was presented with an affidavit and the consequences of not telling the truth were severe, I’d tell the truth.”
Brown’s persistence highlights the potential ramifications if Red Bull is proven guilty. He noted that violating parc fermé regulations is a clear breach of the rules and argued for substantial consequences if evidence of wrongdoing emerges.
“I am confident the matter is dealt with going forward. But if they have done it in the past, there is no grey area about it,” he said.
“Modifying your car in parc fermé is as clear a breach of the regulations as possible.”
Horner has pushed back against the suspicions, dismissing them as “paranoia.” On the other hand, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has not minced words, labeling Red Bull’s device “outrageous.”
These conflicting viewpoints have only fueled the ongoing debate.
“[There needs] to be a deterrent,” added Brown. “We have seen drivers excluded from races and championships. And I am not saying Max [Verstappen] should be excluded, by the way.
“If, and I say “if”, parc fermé rules have been broken, the penalty needs to be of that magnitude, depending on whether they did it once or have been doing it regularly for three years.
“There must be consequences.”
Brown’s demand for an affidavit shows his determination to ensure transparency and accountability in Formula 1.
While the FIA has closed the investigation for now, Brown’s call for further action could keep this controversy alive and potentially put Red Bull in a challenging position if they’re asked to put their integrity in writing.
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