The FIA is reportedly preparing to intensify its scrutiny on parc ferme regulations at the upcoming United States Grand Prix, following concerns that an unnamed Formula 1 team may have violated the ride height restrictions to gain an aerodynamic edge. This comes amid suspicions that one team might be using a mechanism to adjust ride height during parc ferme, an act strictly prohibited under F1’s technical regulations.
Ride height is a crucial factor in F1, especially in the current ground effect era, where even slight adjustments can unlock significant aerodynamic performance. Under parc ferme conditions, teams are not allowed to make any changes that affect the car’s setup, including ride height, from qualifying to the race. This ensures a level playing field, as the cars are locked in with the same setup after qualifying.
However, Autosport reports that concerns have been raised over the possibility that a team has found a way to modify the front bib height from within the driver cockpit during parc ferme, which would directly breach the technical regulations. The alleged mechanism, if proven, would offer a significant advantage, allowing the team to adjust aerodynamics based on varying fuel loads between qualifying and the race.
While no concrete evidence has been brought to the FIA’s attention, the governing body has confirmed that it is aware of the claims and is taking steps to prevent any potential violations. An FIA spokesperson stated, “Any adjustment to the front bib clearance during parc ferme conditions is strictly prohibited by the regulations. While we have not received any indication of any team employing such a system, the FIA remains vigilant in our ongoing efforts to enhance the policing of the sport.”
In response to these concerns, the FIA is expected to implement stricter procedural adjustments, which could include sealing components of the car to ensure compliance. This would make it more difficult for any team to modify the ride height during parc ferme without being detected.
With six races left in the 2024 season and intense battles raging across the grid, any team found guilty of such a breach could face severe penalties. In the Constructors’ Championship, McLaren, Red Bull, and Ferrari are separated by just 75 points, and the Drivers’ Championship sees Lando Norris trailing Max Verstappen by only 52 points. Additionally, the fight for sixth in the Constructors’ standings between Red Bull’s sister team RB and Haas is separated by a slim margin of just three points.
If any team is found to be using a ride height-altering device, it could drastically impact the outcome of the championship battles. The FIA’s regulations on this matter are explicit. Article 40.2 of the technical regulations states that “the aerodynamic setup of the front wing may be adjusted using the existing parts. No parts may be added, removed or replaced.” Additionally, Article 40.9 reinforces that “a competitor may not modify any part on the car” under parc ferme.
As the FIA ramps up its vigilance, teams will be under closer scrutiny at the Circuit of the Americas this weekend.
