F1 News: Max Verstappen Denies Red Bull's Involvement in New F1 Braking Regulations

Max Verstappen has addressed the recent ban on asymmetric braking systems in Formula 1 , clarifying that Red Bull Racing had no involvement in the decision made by the FIA. This clarification comes amid speculation that the ban was prompted by Red Bull's recent performance decline, which some attributed to the team’s alleged use of such systems.

On July 31, the FIA updated its technical regulations to close loopholes and ensure clarity as F1 gears up for a new regulatory era in 2026. The updated rules specifically prohibit teams from employing braking systems that apply different pressure to the wheels, which could enhance the car's handling during turns.

"The brake system must be designed so that within each circuit, the forces applied to the brake pads are the same magnitude and act as opposing pairs on a given brake disc."

The regulation states that the brake system must ensure equal force on the brake pads for each wheel. The new clause explicitly bans any mechanism that could create asymmetric braking torques on a given axle.

"Any system or mechanism which can produce systematically or intentionally, asymmetric braking torques for a given axle is forbidden."

Historically, teams have utilized brake steer devices to adjust braking force on one side of the car, aiding in cornering. However, the FIA's recent changes aim to prevent such tactics, which could unfairly influence race outcomes.

Rumors suggested that Red Bull's performance dipped after the Miami Grand Prix due to abandoning a braking system that might have violated these regulations. In response to questions about whether Red Bull is using an asymmetric braking system this season, Verstappen firmly denied the claims.

“Not at all, no," Verstappen said via Autosport .

“I don’t know where that comes from. We don’t have that on the car either, so we don’t worry about it to be honest.”

The situation for Red Bull is further complicated by Verstappen's brake failure during the Australian Grand Prix. However, if the FIA had found any breaches of the rules, it would have issued a Technical Directive to all teams outlining the infractions and necessary corrective actions. Thus, the rumors of wrongdoing by Red Bull can be considered unfounded.

Verstappen's comments indicate that the team is not concerned about the speculation surrounding their braking systems, reaffirming their commitment to adhering to the updated regulations.