In a bid to address the burgeoning issue of flexible wings in Formula 1, the International Automobile Federation (FIA) is set to roll out further restrictions, starting from the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka. This move comes in the wake of the intense spotlight on flexi wings, which roused much debate in the 2024 Formula 1 season.
The FIA is not holding back in its resolution to tackle the problem, which is evident in its early actions in the 2025 F1 season. The governing body had previously issued a Technical Directive in February, notifying teams about tightened load-deflection tests on the front wing. These measures were to be put in action from the Spanish Grand Prix weekend in late May, marking the season’s ninth race.
However, these changes have not been without controversy. The potential to disrupt the season’s rhythm halfway has left several teams disgruntled. The governing body has also announced renewed efforts to regulate rear wings. Ahead of the recent Australian Grand Prix, teams received another Technical Directive requiring them to set up a rear-facing housing to hold cameras. This setup enabled the FIA to supervise rear wing deflection during Friday’s practice sessions at Albert Park.
Post-race analysis of the Australian Grand Prix revealed that all 10 teams had complied with the deflection limits. Yet, the FIA stirred the pot once again on Monday, stating that they had found ‘sufficient grounds’ to implement a ‘tougher test’ for the upper rear wing. This new test is scheduled to be introduced from the forthcoming Chinese Grand Prix.
In a significant development, Nikolas Tombazis confirmed that the changes rolled out at Suzuka will likely be incorporated into an updated version of F1’s technical regulations. This move hinges on the approval of the FIA World Motor Motorsport Council and is expected to be finalized by the month’s end.
Notably, Technical Directives, though not public documents, are generally interpretations of rules by an FIA official. The decision to include the Japanese Grand Prix measures in the F1 2025 regulations illustrates the FIA’s commitment to resolving the flexi wings issue.
Starting from the Chinese Grand Prix, the permissible level of flex will be reduced to 0.75mm under static test loads. This limit will be further brought down to 0.5mm from the Japanese Grand Prix. The methodology for static tests, encompassing load application points, means of application, and measurement methodology, will remain consistent.
On a different note, McLaren’s Lando Norris will be entering the Chinese Grand Prix weekend leading the World Championships for the first time, following his triumphant run in Australia. This development signifies a shift in the Drivers’ standings, with Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, the runner-up in Melbourne, losing his lead for the first time since May 2022.
