Ferrari’s technical director of chassis, Loic Serra, has confidently brushed off concerns regarding the impending enforcement of the revised technical directive, TD018. The directive, which impacts the flexibility of the front wings on F1 cars, is set to take effect from the 2025 Spanish Grand Prix. However, Ferrari’s development plan has been carefully crafted to allow time for the design of a new front wing, ensuring they’re not caught off guard by the updated technical guidelines.
The FIA, motorsports’ governing body, had notified teams about this updated directive in late January. The revision comes in the wake of concerns raised last year about some teams’ wings exceeding the permissible flexibility levels. In response to these concerns, the FIA has tightened its guidelines, reducing the allowed level of movement from 15mm to 10mm and introducing more rigorous testing protocols.
An FIA spokesperson, in a statement to PlanetF1.com, emphasized the organization’s commitment to eliminate bodywork flexibility as a point of contention for the 2025 season. They added, “Our efforts will include expanded rear wing tests from the start of the season, with additional front wing tests being introduced from the Spanish GP. This phased approach allows teams to adapt without having to unnecessarily discard existing components.”
The spokesperson also stressed that these modifications aim to improve the FIA’s ability to enforce bodywork flexibility regulations, thereby ensuring a level playing field for all competitors and promoting fair and exciting racing.
Due to the timing of the TD018 update, teams had already designed their 2025 vehicles to comply with the previous 15mm flex rule. This raises the question of whether teams can simply fortify their early 2025 designs.
Serra, while addressing the media at the team’s recent car launch, dismissed this question, saying, “You don’t really have to do that.” He explained that the front wing is part of the development program, so teams just need to consider the structural aspect of the front wing in light of the new regulation.
Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur echoed Serra’s lack of concern about the revised TD018, stating that Barcelona is an ideal circuit to introduce upgrades. He said, “It’s good to have clarity. The most important thing for me is knowing that we have to alter something on the front wing by Barcelona. We can discuss the timing, but in the end, it’s beneficial for us—it aids our development and planning.”
Vasseur stressed the importance of knowing when to bring something new and viewed the worst-case scenario as starting the season as is and then having to make changes after two or three races due to a TD change. However, he reassured that they were all prepared to bring a front wing upgrade during the season, and now they know it must be done by Barcelona.
In conclusion, despite some claims, the teams were not caught off guard by the updated technical directive. This change, rather than posing a challenge, provides a clear path for teams like Ferrari, enabling them to strategically plan their upgrades and adhere to the new regulations.
