Mansell defuses diffuser row by defending dynamic innovations

Published on Friday 27 March 2009 21:00

FORMER Formula 1 world champion Nigel Mansell has accused Ferrari, Renault and Red Bull of being "caught with their pants down" over the ongoing diffuser row.

The three teams claimed Brawn GP, along with Toyota and Williams, had failed to adhere to the regulations regarding the design of their diffuser, a key aerodynamic component which governs the airflow beneath a car.

But after a six-hour hearing this week the stewards presiding over the race threw out the protest, clearing the trio to compete in this weekend's opening Australian Grand Prix.

However, their rivals immediately served notice of their intention to appeal, which will be aired after next weekend's Malaysian Grand Prix should it go ahead.

Mansell, however, declared that the trio only have themselves to blame.

"The biggest problem they (Ferrari, Red Bull and Renault] have is that they didn't think about it," he said.

"Williams have done a stunning job, obviously, as have Brawn GP and a few other teams. The others have been caught with their pants down and they don't like it.

"It's all credit to the officials for saying that those cars are within the regulations and they cannot see anything wrong with them. But if one of those cars wins and the appeals are upheld, then they will lose the race and that will be a terrible start for what should be a fantastic year ahead."

The diffuser is the rear part of the floor of the car between the rear wheels and under the rear wing. Small changes to the set-up can have a big impact on downforce, and therefore grip and speed. Rivals believe the controversial diffusers could give a lap-time benefit of as much as 0.5 seconds.

But beyond this controversy, Mansell believes that reigning world champion Lewis Hamilton is experiencing a reality check at the moment.

After finishing 16th in the first 90-minute practice session yesterday, Hamilton then ended the second session 1.5 seconds faster – but down in 18th position.

Mansell said: "I don't think Lewis realised that when he joined Formula One he walked into the best team with the best car and it shouldn't be as easy as he made it look.

"Now he's finding out that if you haven't got the car quite right you can be off the pace."