Concerns are growing that an unnamed F1 team has been adjusting the ride height of its cars between qualifying and the race, which goes against F1's technical rules.

According to Autosport, suspicions have built up around one team, and discussions between its rivals and the FIA have taken place over the past few weeks.

Raising or lowering the bib, even slightly, between qualifying and the race could give a big advantage. It would help balance the different ride height needs for a low-fuel qualifying lap and a heavier car during the race.

However, making such a change would clearly violate F1's technical rules, which forbid altering the car’s aerodynamic setup once it is in parc fermé, except for the front wing.

The rule is explained in Article 40.2, which says: “The aerodynamic set up of the front wing may be adjusted using the existing parts. No parts may be added, removed or replaced." This is backed up by Article 40.9, which says no part of the car can be changed.

It's not known which teams have been involved in these talks, however, FIA is ready to take precautions anyway and is changing its procedures for checking the front bib features starting immediately from the United States Grand Prix this weekend.

An FIA spokesperson said: “Any adjustment to the front bib clearance during parc ferme conditions is strictly prohibited by the regulations.

“While we have not received any indication of any team employing such a system, the FIA remains vigilant in our ongoing efforts to enhance the policing of the sport.

“As part of this, we have implemented procedural adjustments to ensure that front bib clearance cannot be easily modified.

“In some cases, this may involve the application of a seal to provide further assurance of compliance.”