Sebastian Vettel’s Red Bull car at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

The Red Bull team were called before the stewards at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on Saturday evening after being accused of running with an illegal car.

A technical investigation of their cars – driven by Sebastian Vettel and Daniel Ricciardo – resulted in claims that they were fitted with illegal parts.

In a brief statement, Jo Bauer, the Formula One technical delegate of the sport’s ruling body, the International Motoring Federation (FIA), said the front wing flaps of both Red Bull cars were too flexible.

Bauer examined the cars driven by both Australian Ricciardo, who had qualified fifth, and outgoing four-time champion Vettel, who was sixth in his final race weekend with the Red Bull team.

The statement said: “It was found that the front wing flaps were designed to flex under aerodynamic load.

“In my opinion, this is not in compliance with the Formula One technical regulations. Therefore, I am referring this matter to the stewards.”

Red Bull are expected to be asked to modify their car’s wings and may also have to start from the back of the grid or race under appeal, if they choose to do so on Sunday.