Ferrari’s bid for aerodynamic supremacy in 2024 took a hit when delays in developing a flexible front wing left the team trailing its rivals by as much as two months. Team Principal Frédéric Vasseur has revealed the Scuderia’s decision to await an FIA ruling on the legality of flexi-wings proved costly in their pursuit of performance gains.
While Mercedes and McLaren surged ahead with groundbreaking front wing designs, Ferrari was left playing catch-up, losing crucial development time in an era where every second counts under Formula 1’s cost cap restrictions.
FIA’s ‘Go’ Decision Sparks Frustration
Over the summer, the spotlight fell on flexi-wings, with concerns raised by Ferrari and Red Bull about their legality. The FIA responded by deploying video surveillance at Spa-Francorchamps to assess the technology.
Ferrari had banked on the governing body clamping down on the designs, but when the FIA gave Mercedes and McLaren the green light, it left the Italian squad scrambling to adapt.
“We were convinced it would be a ‘no go,’” said Vasseur. “It went for the ‘go.’ So probably we lost one or two months.”
A Cost-Cap Dilemma
Ferrari’s cautious approach stemmed from the financial limitations imposed by the cost cap. Developing a flexible front wing prematurely could have been an expensive misstep if the FIA had banned the design.
“It’s difficult because with the cost cap, you have to make your choices,” Vasseur admitted. “If you are convinced it won’t be allowed, and you start to develop something, then it costs you wind tunnel time. But it was our decision.”
Making Up for Lost Time
Ferrari introduced its own flexi-wing at the Singapore Grand Prix, just in time for a strong end-of-season resurgence. The upgraded design contributed to a dominant 1-2 finish at the U.S. Grand Prix and Carlos Sainz’s commanding victory in Mexico City.
Despite this success, Vasseur acknowledged the delay had hindered Ferrari’s momentum: “The frustration is real, but it’s a lesson for us going forward.”
Flexi-Wing Debate Far From Over
The FIA’s decision not to enforce immediate restrictions has kept the flexi-wing conversation alive. While the governing body refrains from short-term crackdowns, it continues to evaluate the medium and long-term implications of the designs.
“The front wing has always been a challenging area,” the FIA stated, citing variable aerodynamic loads as a reason for leniency. “We reserve the right to introduce new tests if irregularities are suspected.”
The Road Ahead
For Ferrari, the flexi-wing saga highlights the razor-thin margins and high-stakes gambles in modern F1. As the team looks ahead to 2025, lessons from this misstep could shape their approach to future innovation. One thing is certain: in the cutthroat world of Formula 1, waiting for the green light can mean watching your rivals speed past.
