McLaren design causing desert storm

Jenson Button shrugged off the controversy surrounding the new McLaren as Formula One hit the track running in typically contentious style.

A debate is raging in F1 regarding an innovative aerodynamic concept on the car that has been passed legal, but has had nearly every other team principal and engineering guru mumbling words of discontent. The design employs Lewis Hamilton and Button to close off a vent in the cockpit of their car using their legs, which in turn helps to stall the rear wing for extra straight-line speed.

As it is the drivers doing the moving, rather than any part of the car which would be illegal, FIA race steward Charlie Whiting has given the McLaren the all-clear and Button said: "There's no problem with it as it's been passed by the authorities. It's an innovative design and it seems to be working well."

Button was initially coy when asked about the device before then adding: "Our wing is our wing, and that's the way it is.

"We all want more downforce, but aerodynamically and with our straight-line speed we're reasonably happy with where we are."

Renault's managing director Bob Bell has been one of the most outspoken critics of Whiting's decision, pointing an accusing finger at the FIA.

"It is fundamentally clear the McLaren wing design is totally illegal," complained Bell.

"They have driven a cart horse through the spirit of the rules and regulations. They have opened up another arms race.

"It's going to cost everybody a lot of money. The governing bodies need to be a lot stronger with these things."

Date published : 12 Mar 2010 - 17:02:05




Bookmark and Share

Add your comment * required information

*

*
This will be kept private & will not be displayed alongside your comment.

*
eg. London, UK

*

Please tick to confirm that you have read motorsport.co.uk terms & conditions.

motorsportuk on Facebook

skip to content