Audi R15 not legal?

Rivals question the legality of the Audi R15 nose and adjoining wings

The Automobile Club de l'Ouest–organizer of the 24 Hours of Le Mans–is about to issue a clarification on the eligibility of the Audi R15 TDI prototype that recently won the 12 Hours of Sebring. The ACO, which also sets the rules for the American Le Mans Series, has promised to act swiftly in the face of protests from Audi's rivals. Peugeot, Aston Martin Racing and Oreca have all questioned two key areas of the design of the R15 turbo diesel.

New ACO director general Remy Brouard said, "We are speaking with everyone–Audi, Peugeot and Acura–to try to clarify these points. In any rule book, there are always some points to clarify."

Asked if the ACO could force Audi to change the R15, Brouard replied, "I cannot answer that question."

The main concern for Audi's rivals is a flap below the R15's raised nose. They argue that this constitutes an aerodynamic element that is outlawed in the regulations, which state that "with the exception of the rear wing . . . no bodywork or underbody element having a wing profile is permitted."

Aston Martin Racing team principal George Howard-Chappell said, "It looks like it acts exactly like a flap on a wing, with the splitter arrangement acting as the main plane."

An opening on the rear engine cover has also been questioned.

Peugeot is pushing for changes to the R15 ahead of its next scheduled outing at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in June. AutoWeek