Alexandre
Tension is already mounting in the paddock as the 2025 season of the Formula 1 hasn't even officially begun yet. After the stormy episode between Ferrari and Aston Martin, Red Bull in turn files a complaint against the Scuderia Ferrariaccusing SF-25 of violating the regulations. In the meantime, the FIA has reportedly decided to inspect the Maranello factory to verify the conformity of the new single-seater.
Red Bull on the lookout for the slightest flaw
For several seasons now, Red Bull has been watching its rivals for the slightest technical irregularity. In 2024, Christian Horner's team targeted McLaren first and foremost, going so far as to challenge the Woking team's "mini DRS" after the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Although McLaren had to modify its rear wing at the request of the FIA, Red Bull believes that the British team is still using a similar solution for the 2025 season.
Add to this the controversy surrounding the flexible front wing, which prompted the FIA to tighten up its regulations, starting with last year's Spanish Grand Prix. Teams are now subject to more stringent downforce and rigidity tests, to prevent any circumvention of the rules.
Ferrari in the sights
Alongside McLaren, Ferrari now finds itself the target of Red Bull's finger-pointing. According to several sources, including Italian media outlet FUnoAnalisiTecnica, Red Bull has lodged an official complaint against both teams for suspected non-compliance of their rear wings. The main point of contention concerns systems that are potentially too flexible or designed to offer a forbidden aerodynamic advantage.
As a result, the FIA plans to visit Maranello shortly to inspect the SF-25, the Scuderia's new weapon for 2025. A similar visit is expected from Woking to check out McLaren's single-seater. The FIA representatives intend to scrutinize the technical elements of the cars of Charles Leclerc, Oscar Piastri, Lando Norris and Lewis Hamilton.
Ferrari confident despite suspicions
Ferrari is keeping a cool head. The Scuderia's directors and engineers claim that the SF-25 complies perfectly with technical regulations. Although annoyed by the complaint, they consider it to be nothing more than a destabilizing maneuver on Red Bull's part. The tifosi, for their part, hope that this affair will not disrupt the team's preparations or those of Lewis Hamilton, recruited to support Charles Leclerc in his quest for the title.
The intensity of these rivalries underlines the extent to which the 2025 season could be one of the most hotly contested in recent years. Each team is looking for the slightest advantage, even if it means filing complaints to have the regulations reviewed. Problems are solved not only on the track, but also behind the scenes, where the war of nerves is in full swing.