The Grand Prix of Italy 2025 has only just been over, but the aftershocks keep the Formula 1 world busy. Laurent Mekies, RB team boss, caused a stir by revealing a remarkable secret about the latest upgrade of the RB21. According to Mekies, the update yielded so much extra speed that the car was able to drive faster in racing conditions for up to 19 seconds than the MCLAREN MCL39. The news hit like a bomb in the paddock and made McLaren to immediately submit an official complaint to the FIA.

The RB21 was already the subject of speculation during the weekend in Monza. Various analysts noted that the car achieved unusual top speeds, especially on the long straight pieces of the circuit. Where other teams struggled with balance between Downforce and speed, the RB21 suddenly seemed to have found a perfect mix. Mekies confirmed afterwards that the team had reached “a technical breakthrough” thanks to a new aerodynamic philosophy combined with innovative components in the powertrain. “We worked hard within the boundaries of the regulations,” he said. “But I understand that this leads to questions.”

At McLaren, the surprise quickly turned into frustration. The Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri team saw how their carefully prepared strategy seemed to have no effect on the speed of the RB21. According to internal calculations by McLaren, the performance difference was so great that people have doubts whether RB has kept fully adhering to 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 investigate the update of the RB21. In particular, the new floor and the rear wing, parts that are suspected of giving an extraordinary benefit. Whether there is actually a violation is not yet clear.

Opinions are divided into the paddock. Some experts praise RB for their innovation and see it as an example of how smart technical ingenuity can lead to great achievements. Others fear that such a dominance can harm the sport if it appears that the upgrade does not fall within the spirit of the regulations. Former world champion Damon Hill stated: “If this is legal, then RB has gold in hand. But if something is wrong, this can become a huge scandal.”

For the time being it will continue to speculate. RB insists that everything went according to the rules, while McLaren remains combative in his attempt to convince the FIA ​​of the opposite. In the meantime, fans are looking forward to the next Grand Prix in Singapore, where it will become clear whether the RB21 retains its mysterious lead – or whether the FIA ​​intervenes and the team is whistling back.

What is certain is that the unveiling of Mekies shares the championship. The 2025 season already had spectacular fights, but the possible controversy around the RB21 upgrade promises to be one of the greatest stories of the year.