The Formula 1 paddock is buzzing with accusations and controversies, and Red Bull finds itself at the center of it all. A heated debate has erupted over the team’s so-called “T-tray” mechanism, a clever device allowing Red Bull to adjust the car’s height, sparking outrage from rivals who accuse the team of bending, or outright breaking, the rules. While McLaren leads the charge in questioning the legality of the system, Red Bull’s senior advisor Helmut Marko insists it’s all just smoke and mirrors—an attempt to distract from more pressing issues within the sport.
The innovation in question, known as the T-tray or bib, has reportedly been part of Red Bull’s setup for the past three years. According to team boss Christian Horner, the mechanism has been in place long before it became a hot topic. Red Bull maintains the device is used in compliance with FIA regulations, and they vehemently deny making any adjustments to the car during Parc Fermé conditions, the period between qualifying and the race where any modifications are strictly prohibited.
Despite Red Bull’s stance, rivals—particularly McLaren—have seized upon the controversy, labeling it an illegal advantage. Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren, has been particularly vocal, calling for closer scrutiny of Red Bull’s car. This has only fueled the already intense rivalry between the two teams, with both the constructors’ and drivers’ championships on the line. Red Bull’s Max Verstappen leads the standings, but McLaren’s Lando Norris is within striking distance, just 52 points behind with six races remaining.
“Marko: ‘It’s All a Distraction’”
Helmut Marko, never one to mince words, fired back at the critics, particularly McLaren. He claimed that the T-tray issue has been blown out of proportion, suggesting it’s a deliberate attempt to divert attention from McLaren’s own problems. According to Marko, the FIA was fully aware of the device, and no sanctions were imposed, proving Red Bull’s innocence.
“The system is perfectly legal and was known to all the teams,” said Marko. “We had already informed the FIA about it, that says it all. You cannot change the height level between qualifying and the race. That’s the main thing, and there’s nothing illegal.”
Marko believes that the timing of the controversy is no coincidence, especially as McLaren finds itself under increasing scrutiny following its own technical challenges, such as the mini-DRS incident that was banned after the Baku Grand Prix earlier this year. He suggested that McLaren’s focus on Red Bull is a calculated move to distract from their own struggles.
“I don’t understand all the chatter about it. Maybe someone wants to divert attention from other problems,” Marko remarked, aiming a not-so-subtle jab at McLaren.
“FIA Steps In—But Finds No Foul Play”
The FIA has confirmed that it is monitoring the situation but, for now, sees no reason for concern. Nikolas Tombazis, the FIA’s technical director, downplayed the issue, stating that while the organization is keeping a close eye on the matter, there has been no breach of regulations so far.
“I think it’s certainly not a story from now on,” said Tombazis. “I think we’ve done all that’s needed to stop there being any accusations.”
The FIA clarified that the T-tray device is legal for use during practice sessions, but any changes made to it once Parc Fermé rules are in effect—starting after qualifying—would result in immediate penalties. This clarification has put the spotlight back on McLaren, raising questions about whether their outrage is simply a strategic move in the high-stakes battle for the championship.
“The Rivalry Intensifies”
With the championship fight between Red Bull and McLaren heating up, the T-tray controversy has only added fuel to the fire. McLaren, which brought major upgrades to the MCL38 for the United States Grand Prix, is eager to challenge Red Bull’s dominance on the grid. Red Bull, on the other hand, is determined to maintain their lead, with Max Verstappen focused on securing his fourth consecutive title.
The next few races will be critical, not just for determining the champion but also for settling the ongoing war of words between Red Bull and McLaren. As both teams continue to push the limits of the technical regulations, the FIA’s role in overseeing and enforcing these rules will be more important than ever.
As the dust settles over the T-tray controversy, one thing is clear: the battle for supremacy in Formula 1 is far from over. With accusations flying and rival teams watching each other’s every move, the drama off the track is nearly as intense as the action on it.
