Horner Defends Red Bull Amid ‘Bib’ Saga, Insists Compliance with FIA Amid Rival Paranoia

Christian Horner addresses competitors' concerns regarding Red Bull's 'bib' controversy

Christian Horner's reaction to the debate over Red Bull's suspension system.

Christian Horner has expressed that Red Bull is entirely at ease with the FIA examining their contentious F1 suspension system.

The buzz in the Austin racing circuit revolves around a gadget on the Red Bull vehicle that garnered interest during the Singapore race.

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Several competing teams expressed worries that Red Bull had the capability to modify their car's front ride height while in parc ferme conditions, a move that would violate F1 regulations and potentially offer a competitive edge.

Speaking about the matter for the first time, Horner informed Sky Sports that the FIA "is satisfied with it."

Horner detailed that each vehicle is equipped with a mechanism for tweaking the front section of the bib. He added that in their case, this device is situated ahead of the footwell, where it has been placed for more than three years. Accessing it necessitates removing the pedals, various panels, and pipework, making it a typical adjustment feature within the vehicle. Horner pointed out that adjusting a rear roll bar would be simpler compared to reaching this particular part. This is due to its integration into the vehicle's front chassis design.

"It appears there's been some complaints from a competitor, and it's the responsibility of the FIA to investigate such matters. The component in question is part of an open-source list and has been accessible to the public for the past three years. The FIA has expressed their contentment with the situation, aiming to alleviate concerns that have arisen within the racing community."

"Occasionally, to divert attention from issues within your own domain, you might ignite controversies elsewhere. There was significant uproar regarding rear wings… It's a component of Formula 1, and I anticipate more developments will emerge leading up to Abu Dhabi."

McLaren's chief, Zak Brown, has advocated for severe repercussions if the FIA's probe determines Red Bull utilized the device during parc ferme conditions.

Nonetheless, Horner firmly believes that Red Bull has not committed any misconduct.

"He mentioned that the dialogue occurred during their meeting with the FIA in Singapore. He noted that the FIA has reviewed the matter and is completely satisfied with it, expressing no concerns whatsoever."

"It's likely that there are around 600 components in the car that can be modified. These adjustments are accessible to everyone. However, what's prohibited is making these adjustments while in parc ferme. This rule has been adhered to. Modifying something like the floor stake, roll bar, or the length of a push rod would be simpler than removing the pedals. Surveillance is tight, with cameras monitoring the vehicles and inspectors along with observers keeping an eye on all activities. Our vehicle has undergone more inspection than any other in the pit lane over the past three years. We're completely at ease with this scrutiny."

"We have the capability to secure all adjustable connections within the vehicle. The regulations of parc ferme mean that alterations are prohibited. That's the purpose of parc ferme. We've adhered to every rule and process. Our conversations with the FIA have been positive, and they are fully satisfied with what we've presented."

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