Renault's Bob Bell has launched a scathing attack on McLaren, claiming that a controversial device on its car threatens to spark a new 'arms race'.

Despite being given the all-clear by the FIA, the driver operated device, which closes a vent in the cockpit and stalls the rear wing, thereby aiding straight-line speed, is said by some to be against the spirit of the rules.

Previously, Red Bull had been the main critic of the device, however, interviewed by BBC Sport during this morning's opening practice session, Renault's managing director Bob Bell made his feelings crystal clear.

"It is fundamentally clear that the McLaren wing design is totally illegal, and they have driven a cart horse through the sprit of the rules and regulations," he said. "They have opened up another arms race and it's going to cost everybody a lot of money. The governing body needs to be a lot stronger with these things.

"I think it is ridiculous in this era where we are all trying to save money," he continued. "We are restricted by the number of people that we can bring to the track, with mechanics working ridiculous hours at night to prepare the car. Now we have just opened another arms race that will cost us all a lot of money. It's a nonsense and I think the governing body needs to be more responsible in decisions like this."

However, despite his obvious anger and frustration, Bell admitted that he is unclear as to whether his team, or indeed one of its rivals, will launch an official protest.

"I honestly couldn't comment on that at this stage," he said. "It's obviously not out of the question that any team could protest at this stage."