The world of Formula 1 is abuzz with whispers of ‘mini-DRS’ antics resurfacing in the forthcoming Australian Grand Prix, prompting the International Automobile Federation (FIA) to intensify surveillance measures to maintain the integrity of the sport. This announcement follows a series of suspicious activities observed during recent pre-season testing at Bahrain, igniting concerns about the potential exploitation of aeroelasticity by teams.
In the spotlight was Mercedes, whose rear wing appeared to exhibit unusual flexibility on straight runs, as captured on rear-facing cameras. Other teams raised eyebrows as slot gaps on their vehicles seemed to be expanding in an uncanny imitation of the notorious mini-DRS tactics.
Red Bull’s Technical Director, Pierre Wache, added fuel to the fire, stating that despite the FIA’s efforts to clamp down on such practices, some teams, namely Ferrari and McLaren, still seemed to be dabbling in these controversial techniques. “It is still going on,” Wache noted with concern.
Other teams have reported observing the unusual application of flo-vis paint on some cars’ rear wings, hinting at unconventional flexing behaviour at high speeds. These observations have led the FIA to heighten its scrutiny to ensure that teams are not bending the rules to their advantage.
As first disclosed by the Italian website Autoracer.it, the FIA has decided to intensify its investigation of rear wing behaviour from the commencement of the season in Australia. A technical directive from the FIA’s single-seater director Nikolas Tombazis has requested teams to equip their vehicles with FIA camera housings to facilitate more effective monitoring.
These high-resolution cameras will capture detailed footage of the rear wings at high velocities, assisting the FIA in understanding any anomalies when the cars are on the track. This method of using additional cameras to monitor flexing mirrors the approach adopted since last year’s Belgian Grand Prix, where the FIA commenced monitoring front wing behaviour.
The FIA has already initiated measures to prevent teams from exploiting aero elasticity this year, amending regulations for both front and rear wings. More stringent tests for front wings will be implemented from the Spanish Grand Prix, while the recent focus on rear wing behaviour may lead to further action if any irregularities are detected.
This could result in either individual teams being cautioned about excessive wing flexing or the implementation of more rigorous testing procedures.
The tactic of opening the rear wing slot gap to decrease drag gained traction last year when McLaren pioneered its mini-DRS. However, after Oscar Piastri’s victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix was attributed to this technique, McLaren faced a backlash from rival teams and had to modify their wing design for subsequent races.
In a bid to prevent a recurrence of such tactics this year, the FIA has amended the regulations for the current season. Changes include reducing the slot gap width from a 10-15mm minimum allowance to 9.4-13mm, while the upper limit remains at 85mm when DRS is open. Notably, a new rule clarifies that the DRS bodywork position can only be in the open or closed state and cannot flex to intermediate positions.
Moreover, new amendments have been implemented to compel teams to reinforce their rear wing mainplane. This ensures that the sport remains fair and competitive while preserving the excitement that keeps fans on the edge of their seats. With tensions running high, the Australian Grand Prix promises to be a thrilling event.
