In an unexpected twist during the 2025 Formula 1 season, Red Bull Racing team principal Christian Horner has made a striking statement that has sent shockwaves through the paddock. In just five words – “They haven’t changed the front wing” – he pointed to a potential advantage of McLaren’s MCL39, which he claimed was not in line with recent changes to the FIA regulations. The statement has sparked a wave of speculation and debate, particularly as McLaren has proven to be a dominant force on track this season. Horner’s comments, made after the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, have not only caught the attention of the media, but also the FIA itself, which has felt compelled to respond.
The 2025 season has been a rollercoaster for Formula 1 fans so far, with McLaren showing unprecedented speed and consistency. The MCL39, driven by Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, has dominated races, most notably in Miami, where Piastri built a commanding 40-second lead over Max Verstappen. These performances have led to admiration, but also suspicion, from rival teams, most notably Red Bull. Horner’s comments suggest that McLaren may have found a loophole, specifically with regard to the MCL39’s front wing, which he claims does not meet new technical guidelines introduced by the FIA just ahead of the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix.
The FIA, led by president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, has been quick to respond to the allegations. In an official statement, the motorsport governing body stressed that all cars, including the MCL39, are thoroughly checked for compliance with the regulations. Ben Sulayem pointed out that recent changes to the technical guidelines, which include front wing flexibility and tyre temperature management, were intended to ensure a level playing field. He denied that McLaren had gained any advantage through non-compliant components. “Our inspections are rigorous and transparent. McLaren has complied with all the requirements,” he said, seeking to dampen speculation.
Still, Horner’s comments have sent the paddock into a frenzy of rumours. Red Bull, who have struggled to match McLaren’s pace this season, appear determined to put their rivals’ performances under the microscope. Earlier this year, Red Bull accused McLaren of using a wheel-trick to manage tyre temperatures, a claim that was investigated and dismissed by the FIA due to lack of evidence. Horner’s recent comments about the front wing appear to be a continuation of this strategy to put pressure on both McLaren and the FIA. His comments suggest that Red Bull believes McLaren’s pace is partly down to a rule-pushing interpretation.
McLaren itself has responded calmly to the allegations. Team principal Zak Brown dismissed the allegations and challenged Red Bull to make an official complaint if they actually have evidence of rule violations. “We are operating completely within the rules and focused on developing the best car,” Brown said in Miami. He stressed that the MCL39’s speed is the result of hard work and innovation, not rule-bending. This confident stance has served McLaren well, given their consistent performances at various circuits this season.
The front wing debate raises a broader question for Formula 1: how far can teams go in interpreting the technical regulations? The sport has a long history of teams pushing the boundaries of the rules, often leading to innovation but also controversy. Horner himself has advocated for greater freedom in the interpretation of the regulations in the past, as he indicated in 2024 regarding the 2026 regulations. However, his current criticism of McLaren appears to be a strategic move to draw attention to the achievements of its rivals as Red Bull struggles to regain its former dominance.
As the season continues, the Monaco Grand Prix is likely to provide more clarity. If McLaren excel again there, speculation about their perceived rule advantage will only increase. For now, the Formula 1 paddock remains in suspense as Horner’s five words continue to reverberate: a subtle but powerful attempt to influence the dynamics of the championship.
