Scrutiny on McLaren - Mercedes as FIA Addresses Flex Wings

The FIA clarifies its position on the flexible wings controversy implicating top teams McLaren and Mercedes F1.

The FIA has responded to recent speculations regarding overly flexible wings used by McLaren and Mercedes F1, as alleged by Red Bull and Ferrari, with a statement clarifying its stance on the current level of flexion observed through a recent technical directive.

The flexibility of the front wings of some top F1 teams has drawn attention in recent weeks, with the FIA looking to assess the degree of flexion via a directive introduced at the Belgian Grand Prix.

Since Belgium, the TD034G directive has enabled the FIA to closely monitor the flexibility level using ultra-high-resolution cameras and tracking points.

While all teams have passed all current load tests and checks, some teams are discontent with the level of flexibility displayed by McLaren and Mercedes. Consequently, Ferrari, Red Bull, and also Williams have expressed their concerns to the FIA.

A statement released by the FIA this Tuesday clarified the governing body’s position following the initial monitoring period of a few weeks.

“The FIA examines the front wings at each event with numerous checks (surface compliance, deflection compliance) in accordance with the current F1 technical regulations,” reads the statement.

“All front wings are currently in compliance with the 2024 regulations.”

“Since the Belgian Grand Prix, the FIA has gathered additional data during the EL1 and EL2 sessions to assess dynamic behaviors using a FIA-mandated video camera that captures areas of the front wing not visible by the official FOM cameras.”

“This exercise will continue at least until Singapore to ensure that each team has used the FIA-mandated camera across various types of tracks (low, medium, high, and very high downforce).”

“This will create a large database allowing the FIA to form the most objective picture of the situation and to quantify the differences between the various dynamic models observed on track.”

The governing body also explained that the current static load tests checking flexibility levels might need to be refined for 2025 and acknowledged that uniform monitoring of front wings has been challenging.

“No component is infinitely rigid, which is why there are load-deflection tests in the regulations.”

“The front wing has been a difficult area to regulate over the years, as aerodynamic load patterns vary among competitors, making it hard to find a load vector that covers all types of front wing constructions.”

“Other areas of the car – notably the rear wing and the edges of the floor – exhibit much more consistent aerodynamic load patterns across the grid, allowing for a more universal load-deflection test.”

“The FIA has the right to introduce new tests if irregularities are suspected. No short-term measures are planned, but we are assessing the situation with medium and long-term considerations in mind.”

In other words: McLaren F1 and Mercedes F1 can finish the 2024 season with peace of mind regarding their current designs. Will Red Bull respond in some races, and potentially for 2025 if the FIA does not intervene?