Mercedes boss joins rivals in criticising Red Bull’s controversial adjuster as FIA begins further probe ahead of Mexico City Grand Prix.

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has branded Red Bull’s ride-height adjusting device as “outrageous,” joining the growing chorus of critics who believe the system may have been used to gain an unfair advantage. Wolff’s comments come as the FIA is expected to further investigate the device, which has sparked widespread concern in the paddock.

The controversy surrounding the device, which Red Bull used on their RB20 car, took centre stage during the build-up to the United States Grand Prix. Red Bull confirmed that, following discussions with the FIA, they had agreed to make changes to their car, although they maintained that their setup did not break any rules.

Wolff, however, was less than convinced. “It’s outrageous if what we’re hearing is true,” he stated, adding that he expects the FIA to take a close look at the system. “It goes against the fundamental principles of the sport if teams are allowed to manipulate ride height in parc ferme conditions.”

Under current Formula 1 regulation, teams are not permitted to adjust critical car components, such as the ride height, once the cars have entered parc ferme – the period before a race when the cars are under FIA control and adjustments are strictly prohibited.

Reports have suggested that Red Bull’s system may have involved altering the ride height via the ‘bib’ at the front of the car’s floor, a critical area for controlling aerodynamics and tyre performance. Such adjustments could give an advantage in changing track conditions or under varying loads, leading to faster lap times.

The FIA had already begun an initial inquiry into the device, with Red Bull boss Christian Horner downplaying the situation, suggesting that the probe was merely to “satisfy some paranoia” from rival teams. However, Wolff’s comments have added to the pressure, with McLaren’s Zak Brown also voicing his concerns earlier in the week.

“We’re not asking for special treatment,” Wolff continued. “We’re asking for fair play and consistency. Everyone knows the rules, and if they can’t be enforced properly, it erodes trust in the system.”

Red Bull, known for pushing the boundaries of technical innovation, has maintained that it operates within the regulations. Christian Horner responded to the criticism by expressing confidence in the legality of the car’s design, and the team has already committed to making the necessary changes in collaboration with the FIA.

The device was discovered during routine post-race inspections, and while no formal penalty was issued at the US Grand Prix, rival teams, including Mercedes, are calling for closer scrutiny ahead of this weekend’s Mexico City Grand Prix.

F1 analyst Ted Kravitz explained the technical details of the device, highlighting how such an adjuster could have provided an edge by optimising the car’s aerodynamics. “The ‘bib’ area controls much of the airflow under the car, and any change in ride height would have a dramatic effect on how efficiently the car cuts through the air,” Kravitz noted. “It’s a hot topic in the paddock right now.”

With tensions running high, the FIA’s investigation into the matter could have major implications for Red Bull’s season, especially with the Mexico City Grand Prix just days away. The team has already secured both the drivers’ and constructors’ championships, but rivals are determined to ensure that any advantage gained by technical trickery is addressed.

As the controversy rumbles on, fans and teams alike are eagerly awaiting the outcome of the FIA’s deeper investigation. For now, all eyes are on the Mexican Grand Prix, where Red Bull will have to comply with the agreed changes and prove that their dominance on track is purely down to driver skill and car design – without any extra tricks.