Max Verstappen claims he had no idea about Red Bull’s banned ‘T-tray’ car trick
Max Verstappen clarifies Red Bull’s banned T-tray system, stressing he was unaware of it when accusations first emerged against them.
Formula 1 resumes this weekend with its 19th race of the 2024 season. Immense excitement is in the air as fans gear up for the United States Grand Prix. However, alongside the thrill of competition, Red Bull has been accused of modifying RB20’s parts under parc ferme conditions. In line with this, Max Verstappen has asserted that he had no idea that the unnamed team using a Bib trick was Red Bull.
The FIA recently decided to enforce stricter checks on the ride height of F1 cars after suspicions arose that an unnamed team might be using a trick to gain an advantage. Some teams accused Red Bull of secretly adjusting the ‘T-tray‘ under the car in Parc Ferme conditions. It’s a restricted area where cars are not supposed to be modified.
By making small changes to this part, the Milton Keynes outfit could have been tweaking the car’s ride height. This would’ve potentially helped them perform better in both qualifying and races. Max Verstappen explained that the system is visible to the public and not a secret weapon they’ve been using. He emphasized it was just a simple tool used when the parts were not installed on the car.
Red Bull has admitted that they are the team under scrutiny and confirmed the existence of a ride-height adjustment system. Verstappen explained that while it was easy to adjust the car initially, it became impossible once it was fully assembled. He emphasized that this discovery didn’t impact them because they weren’t making these changes during races.
The Dutchman initially believed the issue involved other teams, but he soon realized the matter was actually about Red Bull. Verstappen mentioned that the team didn’t even discuss the matter in their briefing, indicating that they had no idea about it.
Lando Norris isn’t too concerned about Red Bull’s ride-height adjustment system. He explained that the real issue isn’t having the system but how much it’s actually used. Norris admitted that neither he nor McLaren knows how often Milton Keynes might have used it.
Looking back at recent races, he noticed that their performance doesn’t suggest they were benefiting from it. Otherwise, Sergio Perez wouldn’t have struggled as much. Norris pointed out that if Verstappen had used the system effectively, he would have secured more pole positions and wins. The Briton believes that even if the FIA removes or regulates the system, it won’t significantly impact Red Bull’s performance.
Certainly, With the race in Austin approaching, teams are likely focusing on competition rather than controversies. Verstappen currently holds a 52-point lead over title contender Norris, so his priority will be to defend it. Red Bull also needs to regain its dominance after recent setbacks and reclaim their title lead. Fans are excited as the competition intensifies with only six races remaining in the season.
