McLaren responds cautiously to Red Bull bib device

McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri have delivered carefully considered responses to Red Bull's confirmation of a controversial bib height adjustment device on their RB20.

Norris downplays performance impact

With McLaren challenging Red Bull's dominance in the constructors' championship, Norris offered a measured assessment of the situation.

"It's one thing having it on your car, it's another thing to how much you exploit it and use it, which we have no idea about,"

the British driver explained during the Austin press conference. He emphasized that such a device alone couldn't account for Red Bull's success, noting

"they're not going to have got several pole positions or wins just because of such a device."

Technical implementation and FIA response

The controversy centers around a component capable of adjusting the car's front bib height - a crucial area near the front of the floor.

Red Bull has acknowledged the device's existence through a senior team representative, who stated:

"Yes it exists although it is inaccessible once the car is fully assembled and ready to run."

The team maintains ongoing dialogue with the FIA, confirming "we have agreed a plan going forward."

Regulatory framework

The FIA has responded by implementing enhanced control measures at the United States Grand Prix, including physical seals on bib height adjustment mechanisms.

While no evidence of improper use under parc fermé conditions has emerged, the governing body emphasizes its commitment to rigorous oversight of technical compliance.

Piastri's technical perspective

Oscar Piastri drew a clear distinction between innovation and rule-breaking.

"From what I've heard and been told, something like this is not pushing the boundaries. It's clearly breaking them,"

the Australian rookie asserted.

He referenced McLaren's own recent technical adjustments, comparing the situation to their "mini DRS" modifications while highlighting the difference between grey area innovation and outright rule violations.

The matter continues to develop as Formula 1's technical regulations face renewed scrutiny, with implications for both championship battles hanging in the balance as the season enters its crucial final phase.