Lewis Hamilton Backs Red Bull’s Innovation Amid ‘Bib’ Device Controversy in F1

Lewis Hamilton stands up for Red Bull, praising them as 'pioneers' in F1 technology despite the ongoing debate about their 'bib' device.

Lewis Hamilton seems to have defended Red Bull, his competitors in F1, amidst the controversy over their disputed ride-height mechanism.

A new controversy has arisen around Red Bull as the United States Grand Prix approaches this weekend. Rival teams have expressed concerns, suspecting that Red Bull might possess a mechanism capable of altering their car’s ride height during parc ferme conditions.

Before the Austin race, Red Bull announced that they had modified their car after discussions with the FIA, the organization that oversees Formula 1.

Red Bull conceded that they have the mechanism referred to as the 'bib' or 'tea-tray.' However, they stressed that they were not engaging in any improper actions, noting that the device cannot be accessed once the car is completely put together and prepared for operation.

When questioned about his opinion, Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, mentioned that teams in Formula 1 have always been eager to explore innovative approaches. However, he implied that there should be more effective regulation in place.

"I only recently found out about it, just prior to arriving. However, I believe innovation is at the core of our sport's identity. Red Bull has taken the lead in this area and has been at the forefront of innovation," Hamilton mentioned to Sky Sports F1.

"In the end, every team examines the regulations and seeks ways to tweak them to their advantage, even if it means pushing the boundaries slightly. It's important to keep improving and ensuring stricter enforcement."

"In the end, they outperformed us. It's unclear how long they've possessed that advantage, but it's helped them secure championships. Perhaps that will come to an end now… Although, I doubt that's the sole factor that will halt their success."

"However, I believe that for everyone else, it's important to keep innovating and taking the lead instead of just trying to keep pace."

Max Verstappen, who currently leads the championship with a 52-point advantage over McLaren's Lando Norris as they approach the last six races, stated that the modifications will not affect Red Bull's performance.

According to the Dutch individual, the tool was straightforward for them to use. Adjustments were simple when dealing with separate components. However, once the car was fully assembled, making changes was impossible. Therefore, for them, it didn't alter anything.

"When I came across the information, I initially assumed it was about other teams. Then, I discovered it was actually connected to our team. We hadn't discussed it in any of our briefings; it simply served as a more convenient way to make adjustments."

Norris and his McLaren teammate, Oscar Piastri, expressed a contrasting view, both characterizing the device as an obvious violation of F1 regulations.

Norris mentioned that there is a clear distinction between straightforward matters and the act of challenging limits to invent and innovate within the permissible space.

"In my opinion, McLaren has excelled in this area, but we're careful not to push beyond that point."

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