The FIA’s front wing crackdown might actually help Max Verstappen, as Red Bull’s Helmut Marko believes the rule change plays in his favor.
A mid-season crackdown on flexible front wings might play right into Max Verstappen’s hands.
Red Bull’s advisor, Dr. Helmut Marko, believes the FIA’s decision to tighten flexibility tests from June in Barcelona could end up favoring the Dutchman. But he’s not happy with how the rule change is being handled.
“Now, every team—except the smaller ones—has designed a wing that bends. It’s ridiculous that we have to throw them away mid-season,” Marko said.
For him, the FIA should have enforced the rule from the start instead of letting teams develop flexible wings, only to outlaw them months later.
“Either the rule applies from the beginning, or it doesn’t at all. The FIA should have written the regulations clearly, without these gray areas.”
While flexible wings don’t drastically impact outright speed, they do make the car more stable and easier to handle. And that’s where Verstappen’s unique skills could shine.
When asked if this rule shift would benefit the reigning four-time world champion, Marko didn’t hesitate:
“It will definitely favor Max. No one else controls a tricky car like he does.”
Even former F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone agrees that if 2025 turns into a technical challenge, Verstappen will still be the man to beat.
“Will a McLaren driver win the championship? I really doubt it. Just give Max a half-decent car and watch what happens. Is Norris as good as Max? The answer is no.”
With another regulation shake-up on the horizon, it seems Verstappen’s natural talent might give him yet another edge.
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Why Verstappen May Gain from F1’s Wing Flex Rule Shift Why Verstappen May Gain from F1’s Wing Flex Rule Shift
