The 2025 Italian Grand Prix has only just passed, but its aftershocks continue to grip the Formula 1 world. RB team principal Laurent Mekies caused a stir after the race by revealing a remarkable secret about the RB21’s latest upgrade. According to Mekies, the update delivered so much extra speed that the car was capable of being up to 19 seconds faster than the McLaren MCL39 in race conditions. The news sent shockwaves through the paddock, prompting McLaren to immediately file an official complaint with the FIA.
The RB21 was already the subject of speculation during the Monza weekend. Several analysts noted the car’s unusual top speeds, especially on the circuit’s long straights. While other teams struggled with the balance between downforce and speed, the RB21 suddenly seemed to have found the perfect blend. Mekies confirmed afterward that the team had achieved “a technical breakthrough” thanks to a new aerodynamic philosophy combined with innovative powertrain components. “We worked hard within the limits of the regulations,” he stated. “But I understand this raises questions.”
At McLaren, surprise quickly turned to frustration. The team of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri saw how their carefully prepared strategy seemed to have no effect against the speed of the RB21. According to internal McLaren calculations, the performance difference was so significant that there are doubts whether RB had fully complied with the regulations. “This goes beyond a normal upgrade,” said a spokesperson. “We want clarity from the FIA.”
The FIA has since confirmed that McLaren’s complaint has been officially received and that the technical delegation will launch an investigation into the RB21’s update. The investigation will focus specifically on the new floor and rear wing, components suspected of offering significant benefits. Whether a violation has actually occurred remains unclear.
Opinions within the paddock are divided. Some experts praise RB for its innovation and see it as an example of how clever engineering can lead to great achievements. Others fear that such dominance could harm the sport if it turns out the upgrade doesn’t comply with the spirit of the regulations. Former world champion Damon Hill declared: “If this is legal, RB has a gold mine. But if anything is wrong, this could become a huge scandal.”
For now, speculation remains. RB insists everything went according to plan, while McLaren remains combative in its attempt to convince the FIA otherwise. Meanwhile, fans eagerly await the next Grand Prix in Singapore, where it will become clear whether the RB21 maintains its mysterious lead—or whether the FIA intervenes and reprimands the team.
What’s certain is that Mekies’s revelation will put the championship on edge. The 2025 season has already seen some spectacular battles, but the potential controversy surrounding the RB21 upgrade promises to be one of the biggest stories of the year.
