British motorsport publication Autosport reveals that the eligibility of the stunning new Audi R15 that won the recent 12 Hours of Sebring is questioned by rivals over a technical issue.
According to Autosport, Peugeot, Aston Martin Racing and ORECA are among the teams seeking a rules clarification on key aerodynamic elements of the turbo diesel R15.
The three teams have questioned the way Audi has used the bodywork to create aerodynamic effects and increase downforce.
Under scrutiny are the front aerodynamic features, especially the small flaps located above the front splitter.
The Le Mans LMP1 rules states that "with the exception of the rear wing, no bodywork or underbody element having a wing profile is permitted".
The flaps of the R15 are almost identical to those of the front wings of the Formula 1 cars.
Autosport understands that Audi has rejected overtures from the ACO to make revisions. It has argued that the car was homologated ahead of Sebring and therefore is clear to race in that configuration.
The season started with the diffuser dispute in Formula 1. And now, a similar issue is disrupting Le Mans endurance racing.
photo:Audi
According to Autosport, Peugeot, Aston Martin Racing and ORECA are among the teams seeking a rules clarification on key aerodynamic elements of the turbo diesel R15.
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| The flap located above the main plane is clearly visible on this photo. |
The three teams have questioned the way Audi has used the bodywork to create aerodynamic effects and increase downforce.
Under scrutiny are the front aerodynamic features, especially the small flaps located above the front splitter.
The Le Mans LMP1 rules states that "with the exception of the rear wing, no bodywork or underbody element having a wing profile is permitted".
The flaps of the R15 are almost identical to those of the front wings of the Formula 1 cars.
Autosport understands that Audi has rejected overtures from the ACO to make revisions. It has argued that the car was homologated ahead of Sebring and therefore is clear to race in that configuration.
The season started with the diffuser dispute in Formula 1. And now, a similar issue is disrupting Le Mans endurance racing.
photo:Audi