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F1 Tension Rises Over McLaren's 'Mini DRS'

Verstappen Urges FIA Ruling on McLaren Rear Wing

20/09/2024

Max Verstappen seeks urgent FIA clarification on McLaren’s controversial rear wing, a move that could reshape F1 team strategies.

Max Verstappen is calling for the FIA to clarify the legality of McLaren F1’s rear wing, as this design could potentially pave the way (or close it) for developments by other teams on the starting grid.

The FIA is considering revising its rules on flexible wings after footage showed the DRS flap of the MCL38 slightly opening at high speeds in Baku.

Verstappen, who finished fifth in last Sunday’s race, stated he saw footage on social media of the wing appearing to warp under load.

“It’s quite clear, of course, that it moves, as if it’s being lifted at its edges at high speed. It might be clever, it might not, but ultimately it’s up to the FIA to decide if it’s legal or not.”

“It’s important to be precise. Of course, Baku wasn’t the first time it was used, it was present at other tracks as well. I guess it’s important to be precise. But it was obvious in Baku because of the high top speeds reached.”

“But it’s not just about the rear wing, it’s also about the front wing. What’s allowed? To what extent is it allowed to bend? All these kinds of things, right? It’s obviously of interest to all teams. So we just have to wait and see what happens on our side moving forward.”

The FIA stated in a release on Thursday that all teams are considered compliant with the rules if their wings pass deflection tests. No formal complaints against any team’s design have been filed.

Verstappen also commented on the challenge McLaren poses in the championship. McLaren is the only team to have both its drivers with two wins this season. Is McLaren thus the strongest team?

“Oscar is doing a great job in his second year. You’re still learning a lot about Formula 1 and generally at this stage. He’s also been doing a fantastic job lately. He’s really scoring points for the team. And yes, they are currently very strong as a team. So, it’s up to us to try and make it a bit more difficult for them, generally, but that starts with ourselves. We need to be better and make the car faster and that’s what we’re working on.”

F1 Tension Rises Over McLaren’s ‘Mini DRS’ F1 Tension Rises Over McLaren’s ‘Mini DRS’

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