Christian Horner, the team principal of Red Bull, has recently voiced concerns over the timing of the International Automobile Federation’s (FIA) decision to introduce stricter testing on flexi-wings in Formula 1 racing. Horner asserts that the impact of this tightened regulation on the sport is “impossible to predict.”
In the previous season, flexing front wings proved a contentious point, with both McLaren and Mercedes allegedly gaining an unfair advantage from what was perceived as excessive elasticity. This raised eyebrows from rival teams including Red Bull and Ferrari. However, the FIA seemed content with the situation, choosing to leave the testing of the component unchanged, a decision that suggested they considered everything to be within the parameters of the rules.
However, the overseers of the sport have since reassessed their stance. From the 2025 Spanish Grand Prix onwards, more stringent tests will be introduced. This move essentially puts a cap on the excessive flexing of wings, a factor that is believed to enhance performance.
This sudden change in regulations raises concerns for teams that have invested heavily in catching up with the performance-enhancing component. They will now only enjoy the fruits of their investment for nine rounds. On this matter, Horner questioned the timing during the lunch break on the first day of the Bahrain pre-season test. He asked, “Why race nine? It might have been better to have been addressed during the off-season.”
Furthermore, the Red Bull team principal expressed uncertainty about the potential winners and losers in this scenario, making it clear that the outcome is hard to predict.
In contrast to Horner’s apprehensions, Zak Brown, the CEO of McLaren, seemed undeterred by the expected changes. Despite his team being possibly the most impacted given their exploits last season, Brown downplayed the effect on the reigning constructors’ champions. He asserted that he does not foresee a significant shift in the pecking order due to the change, stating that it’s too hard to tell who wins or loses over it.
The FIA’s clampdown on flexi-wings extends to rear wings as well. Stringent tests will be implemented from the start of the season, unlike the mid-season introduction for the front wings. This decision follows the controversy surrounding McLaren’s ‘mini-DRS’ flexi-wing last season, which was subject to a change request from the FIA, even though it was not initially banned.
With these changes set to take effect, the upcoming Formula 1 season promises to be filled with more unpredictability and excitement, as teams adjust their strategies and designs to adhere to the new regulations.
