FIA launches post-race investigation after Verstappen family raises concerns over McLaren’s rear wing
The FIA has officially announced the opening of a post-race investigation into McLaren following a viral video shared by Jos Verstappen, father of reigning World Champion Max Verstappen, that allegedly shows irregular flexing of McLaren’s rear wing compared to Red Bull’s during the Japanese Grand Prix.
While initial scrutineering by the FIA concluded that no technical infringements were committed, the footage now widely circulated on social media appears to show McLaren’s rear wing moving more significantly at high speeds and under braking. The FIA has now decided to take a deeper look.
“Although no breach was detected during post-session inspections, the video evidence warrants further analysis,” an FIA spokesperson confirmed on Friday. “We are initiating a supplementary investigation to ensure full compliance with the technical regulations regarding rear wing flexibility.”
Max Verstappen himself commented on the footage earlier this week, stating, “What I see, probably a lot of people see,” but made it clear he wasn’t pursuing any protest: “I don’t make the rules and I’m also not the one enforcing them.”
Still, the timing of the FIA’s move has raised eyebrows, especially as Jos Verstappen’s repost seemed to rekindle scrutiny over McLaren’s rear wing design a topic that first emerged during the 2024 season with what was dubbed a “mini-DRS” configuration. Although legal at the time, the FIA tightened regulations around wing deflection for the 2025 season.
The FIA clarified that a new technical directive is being prepared, and will come into effect at the Spanish Grand Prix, which will further limit flexibility in both front and rear wings. While the directive was already in the works, this latest development has accelerated internal discussions.
The governing body has not ruled out the possibility of retrospective penalties if a breach is confirmed through simulation data or further aerodynamic analysis. FIA representatives emphasized: “Should any elements be found outside the permitted thresholds, appropriate sanctions including disqualification or loss of points – may be considered.”
With this new investigation underway, the paddock is watching closely. Whether McLaren will face consequences or be cleared again remains to be seen but for now, the FIA is taking no chances.
