McLaren rear wing banned after Red Bull protests

Red Bull senior advisor Helmut Marko has praised the FIA ​​for its action against McLaren’s controversial low-drag rear wing, which appeared to be causing a partial DRS effect. Marko revealed that Red Bull had lodged three protests with the governing body before action was taken. He also warned that Red Bull would thoroughly investigate the McLaren front wing for potential irregularities that should be reported.

The McLaren rear wing attracted considerable attention after footage from Oscar Piastri’s MCL38 showed the top flap lifting under high-speed pressure, creating a semi-DRS effect during the Azerbaijan GP. This deflection reduced drag without the need for DRS activation, raising concerns about compliance.

The McLaren’s impressive performance secured victory for Piastri, but the rear wing design soon became controversial, despite passing FIA inspection and all the necessary static tests. While the wing passed all technical checks during stationary inspections, the FIA’s examination revealed potential violations due to its high-speed behaviour.

After increasing pressure to examine McLaren’s distinctive rear wing, the FIA ​​has requested modifications to prevent the upper wing from flexing under aerodynamic loads, as reported by Motorsport.com. The FIA ​​directive, TD34, clearly states:

“Designs whose structural characteristics are modified by secondary parameters so as to produce (when running on the track) different deflection characteristics than when stationary during FIA inspection. Examples of secondary parameters would be temperature, aerodynamic load, etc.”

McLaren can continue to use its existing low-drag rear wing at tracks where it is beneficial despite the ruling. However, the FIA ​​has requested adjustments to ensure the wing meets the regulations in future events.

McLaren has confirmed discussions it has had with the governing body and has agreed to modify the rear wing. Speaking to media at Marina Bay today, McLaren said in a statement:

“While our Baku rear wing meets the regulations and passes all FIA deflection tests, McLaren proactively offered to make minor changes to the wing following our discussions with the FIA.

“We also expect the FIA ​​to hold similar discussions with other teams regarding the compliance of their rear wings.”

Following the rear wing saga, Marko spoke about Red Bull’s efforts to get the FIA ​​to take action against McLaren. In a social media post, he warned McLaren about potential front wing issues. He said:

“We have protested three times against the McLaren rear wing. Today the FIA ​​made a very correct decision. The McLaren rear wing is not allowed. Now it is time to look at their front wing.”

The comments come from the 81-year-old advisor and come at a time when Red Bull has struggled with set-up and balance issues with its title contender, the RB20, and then McLaren has staged an incredible comeback to overtake Red Bull in the Constructors’ Championship by 20 points after the Baku race.