Alexandre
The rivalry in Formula 1 is as intense as ever, and with the 2025 season fast approaching, tensions between the teams seem to be well underway. A few days ago, we learned that Red Bull launches new attack on Scuderiaby lodging a formal complaint with the FIA. The reason? Suspicions of technical non-conformity concerning the SF-25, Ferrari's single-seater for the coming season. But what exactly are the accusations made by the Austrian team, and what are the consequences for Scuderia?
Red Bull complaint: the threat of mini-DRS
Red Bull's complaint is the latest in a long series of technical inspections carried out by Christian Horner's team, whose aim is to detect any regulatory loopholes in its competitors. But this time, the attack is on the SF-25 and a phenomenon already discussed in 2024: mini-DRS. This flexible system allows the car's rear wing to open slightly at high speeds, reducing drag and offering an aerodynamic advantage.
The mini-DRS was first noticed at the Azerbaijan 2024 Grand Prix, when McLaren used it on Oscar Piastri's single-seater. Thanks to this technology, the McLaren's rear wing deformed, creating a significant gain in straight-line speed. While McLaren had to comply with the regulations by modifying its aileron after the FIA investigation, Red Bull Technical Director Pierre Waché hinted that Ferrari and McLaren continue to use this technology, albeit in slightly modified forms.
FIA inspection at Maranello
The seriousness of the situation should not be underestimated. Following Red Bull's complaint, the FIA has decided to carry out an inspection of the Ferrari factory in Maranello, a move that could have direct consequences on preparations for the 2025 season. The decision follows accusations by Pierre Waché that Ferrari used a similar system on its SF-25. Visiting the Ferrari factory, FIA inspectors will seek to clarify the situation and verify whether the team's practices contravene current regulations.
Scuderia Ferrari is confident
Faced with this new accusation, the Scuderia Ferrari keeps his cool and defends himself vigorously. According to sources close to the team, Scuderia officials assure us that the SF-25 scrupulously complies with technical regulations. They see Red Bull's complaint as an attempt to destabilize the team's preparations for the start of the season. Nevertheless, the pressure is palpable, all the more so as the tifosi are eagerly awaiting Ferrari's ability to compete with giants such as Red Bull and McLaren, the 2023 and 2024 title holders respectively.
What does this mean for Scuderia Ferrari?
Uncertainty surrounds the consequences of this complaint. If the FIA decides that the SF-25 does not comply with the rules, sanctions could be applied, ranging from simple fines to disqualification, thus imposing modifications to the car's design. If Ferrari is finally cleared, it will have been a simple attempt to destabilize an opposing team. It's not the first time F1 has seen teams clash not only on the track, but off it too.
The FIA will now have to make a swift decision to prevent these controversies from invading the teams' preparations just a few days before the start of the season.