McLaren confident of wing legality

There has been some suspicion regarding the McLaren (GETTY IMAGES)

McLaren are confident of heading into the new Formula One season without any cloud of suspicion hanging over their new car.

Red Bull Racing team boss Christian Horner has confirmed he has asked the FIA for clarification over a slot in the rear wing of the McLaren that reduces drag, and so increases straight-line speed.

Horner further suggested Ferrari had joined him in voicing their objections, however, McLaren believe the Maranello marque have so far stayed silent.

With the opening practice session of the season in eight days' time in Bahrain, a McLaren spokesman said: "We're very confident our car is entirely legal - and we're not aware of any protest.

"In fact, we've spoken to Ferrari this morning, and they're not aware of any protest either."

Even Horner feels McLaren will not be forced to dispense with the part as his team are already in the process of preparing something similar.

"There's a bit of a fuss over McLaren's rear wing," said Horner.

"They have a slot on it and they can pick up a lot of straight-line speed.

"We've asked the FIA for clarification, although I think Ferrari are probably more excited than we are to be honest.

"Our question ultimately will be: 'Is it clever design or is it in breach of the regulations?'

"They must be very confident that it's legal. I would think it will be legal."