Christian Horner stated that teams must not use Pirelli tire tests to run new aerodynamic parts. In addition, several teams have also asked the FIA what the rules and regulations were regarding the components used in the tire tests.

His comments referred to exploits by Ferrari. Following Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, Ferrari came under heavy scrutiny for testing what seemed like two different floor specifications during the tire tests for 2023 at Imola. This obviously prompted some queries ahead of the Miami Grand Prix by other teams. 

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However, satisfied with the explanations given by the Maranello-based outfit, FIA has cleared them of any malpractices during the test. 

Christian Horner gives his thoughts on tire testing

Christian Horner says teams shouldn’t be allowed to gather aerodynamic performance data when conducting tire tests. While he said it was ultimately up to the FIA to police such cases, there need to be stringent rules regarding it.

“I understand that the rules of tire testing are that you have to run a fixed specification car and if you need to replace a part it can only be an older specification that has been tested before,” he said to the media.

“I think the feeling on the ground at Ferrari was that it was certainly different between the morning and the afternoon, and it seemed to have some new components. I think it’s up to the FIA ​​to do that police work and do the due diligence.”

The Red Bull Team Principal also added that because the team does not fully understand the new cars. Hence tire tests should not be used to develop the car. He stressed: “That is not the purpose of those tests.”

According to RacingNews365.com, Leclerc had already trialed the floor during the Australian Grand Prix. This meant that there was no breach of regulations in the first place. 

Ferrari target upgrades for Barcelona

At the Miami Grand Prix, Ferrari opted out against using the new smaller rear wing; since the conditions of the Miami race track weren’t ideal. New reports suggest Ferrari will bring major upgrades to Barcelona in order to challenge Red Bull.

The Barcelona upgrades are going to be important as Mattia Binotto said. Reports are that the first upgrade package for the F1-75 is where the significant resources have gone. Binotto is also of the opinion that Red Bull couldn’t keep upgrading.

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His reasoning is that Red Bull would eventually run into problems with the cost cap.