Max Verstappen, the Dutch driver, is causing a stir at Imola as he aims for his second win of the season. Following the Miami Grand Prix, the FIA conducted thorough technical inspections on Oscar Piastri’s McLaren, scrutinizing all wheel components. The Federation confirmed compliance with technical regulations, specifically articles 3.13 and 1.15.
Article 3.13 pertains to all carbon components of the wheel group, including winglets, baskets, and cooling ducts. Article 1.15 relates to liquid cooling, which is prohibited by regulations. Speculation arose that McLaren might have been using a material capable of changing states based on temperature, potentially solid to liquid, to cool the brakes.
When asked about these inspections, Max Verstappen responded, “Am I satisfied that McLaren was examined and found legal? I never said it wasn’t; they have clearly found a very clever solution, and they deserve credit.” Verstappen, who has claimed victory in the last three Emilia Romagna GPs and secured the last two pole positions in Jeddah and Miami, is poised for another strong performance.
According to Piastri, the low temperatures and uneven tarmac at Imola should level the playing field among the top teams in terms of performance. The first two Free Practice sessions will reveal the on-track dynamics, with Red Bull and especially Mercedes introducing significant upgrades.
