Mercedes F1 Draws Inspiration from Adaptations, While McLaren and Williams Show Less Flexibility
According to Carlos Sainz, the influence of the FIA’s new restrictions on flexible front wings on team performance is expected to be minimal. Starting from this weekend’s Spanish Grand Prix, all cars will undergo more stringent static load tests to assess wing flexion, aiming to settle debates surrounding aeroelasticity in Formula 1.
Teams are anticipated to introduce redesigned front wings at Barcelona to ensure compliance with the updated regulations, marking a pivotal moment ahead of the 2025 season.
Speculation has been rife about how these changes might shift the competitive landscape. James Vowles, Sainz’s team director, suggested that top-tier teams could face the most significant challenges due to these new rules.
Nevertheless, Sainz dismissed claims that the restrictions would cause drastic shifts in team standings, considering such concerns to be overstated.
“This topic has been widely discussed,” the Williams driver commented today. “I don’t believe it will impact teams and drivers as much as some expect or suggest regarding this regulation change.”
“It’s still a front wing. Naturally, it will be a bit stiffer and won’t bend as much as before.”
“I don’t foresee a difference exceeding a tenth of a second in qualifying, whether the wing flexes or not. It’s not a major factor.”
When pointed out that a tenth of a second can separate positions by up to four places in qualifying, Sainz responded: “That’s true, especially in our midfield group.”
“Today, teams have access to numerous mechanical and aerodynamic tools to fine-tune their cars. Although the process might be more challenging, we have three free practice sessions to evaluate our car’s performance during EL1, adjust settings, and find the optimal balance.”
“Simulators have already been extensively used to test the new front wings. Modern F1 teams are highly prepared to adapt to such regulatory changes.”
Regarding McLaren’s concerns about the new flexing rules, Lando Norris, winner of the Monaco Grand Prix, stated: “No, not at all.”
“There are some minor adjustments, but nothing that will fundamentally alter our approach.”
However, not everyone shares this optimistic outlook. Mercedes F1 believes the revised regulations could have a tangible effect.
Team representative Bradley Lord echoed Ferrari’s Fred Vasseur, who suggested that the new rules might be a “game-changer.”
“Each team has had to make some modifications,” says Lord.
“What remains uncertain is how these changes will influence our car’s performance relative to others, which we can simulate and understand to some extent, but the overall impact on the grid remains to be seen.”
“This will be a key point of interest for media and fans alike-whether it affects the relative competitiveness.”
“From an external perspective, the adjustments to flex testing seem minor-the FIA’s stiffening of the rules involves just a five-millimeter reduction in allowable flex.”
“Yet, such small margins can significantly influence performance: increased rigidity reduces drag on straights and can enhance aerodynamic grip in corners.”
“It’s less about absolute performance and more about how teams compare to each other. Some teams might benefit more than others, and we’ll only see the true effects during race weekends, especially in qualifying and race pace.”
“It’s logical to assume that teams will only adopt the new front wing designs if they see a performance advantage-unless mandated by technical directives. For now, we simply don’t have all the answers.”
“Expect some differences, particularly in how the car balances at different speeds-finding the right compromise between low-speed grip and high-speed stability will be crucial.”
“Ultimately, only the upcoming races will reveal the true impact of these regulations.”
Lewis Hamilton Criticizes FIA’s Approach and Regulatory Changes
When asked about the broader implications, Lewis Hamilton expressed strong skepticism.
“In the end, flexible front wings are just a band-aid on a poorly designed technical regulation,” he remarked.
“Engineering teams are capable of creating mechanical devices and mechanisms to manipulate the car’s aerodynamics. Achieving the right load on the front at low speeds isn’t straightforward, nor is relying solely on mechanical grip.”
“So far, some teams have managed better than others. This weekend will be interesting because the front wing is less flexible, which puts more stress on the front end at high speeds and less at low speeds.”
“It will be fascinating to see how this affects different teams. Some might have been more flexible in their designs and adapted better.”
“Honestly, I question the purpose of these restrictions. Flexible front wings initially provided a competitive edge-some teams adopted them early, others later, but it was a clear advantage.”
“I remember when Mercedes introduced them last year, and it significantly improved our handling. Rigidifying these components seems counterproductive.”
“I believe the goal is to better control these elements, ensuring they are less manipulable, but I worry it might hinder innovation rather than promote fairness.”
“Hopefully, these measures will at least bring all teams closer in performance, but I remain skeptical.”
