McLaren to modify rear wing after rivals question its legality
What's the story
Formula 1 team, McLaren, have announced plans to alter the rear wing of their car, following concerns raised by competitors about its legality.
The decision comes after the team's victory at the 2024 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where this particular component was used.
The International Automobile Federation (FIA) initially confirmed that the wing had passed all deformation tests and required no modifications from McLaren.
Here's more.
Stance change
FIA revises stance on McLaren's rear wing
The FIA has revised its stance on the rear wing issue, following complaints from rival teams and discussions with McLaren.
Red Bull Racing were among the primary challengers questioning the legality of this component.
Despite initially passing all deformation tests, the FIA now requires McLaren to make changes to their rear wing so that it does not flex at high speeds as seen in Baku.
Decision
McLaren's rear wing passed all FIA tests
On Thursday, an FIA spokesperson confirmed that the McLaren car had successfully passed all tests related to bodywork flexibility and was in accordance with the rules.
The spokesperson also stated that the FIA is "reviewing data and any additional evidence that has emerged from the Baku GP and considering any mitigating measures for future implementation."
A representative from McLaren reiterated their car's legality within all deflection tests and compliance with regulations.
Team response
McLaren respond to rear wing controversy
In response to the controversy, McLaren issued a statement saying, "While our Baku rear wing complies with the regulations and passes all FIA deflection tests, McLaren have proactively offered to make some minor adjustments to the wing following our conversations with the FIA."
The team also expressed hope that similar discussions would take place between other teams and the FIA regarding their rear wings.
Rival reactions
Red Bull and Ferrari weigh in on wing issue
Red Bull have yet to make an official statement on the wing issue, but sources suggest that team principal Christian Horner has been actively pushing the FIA to address it.
Scuedria Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur described the situation as "more than borderline" and "frustrating" due to its potential impact on close competition at recent races.
He clarified that unlike front wings, rear wings have a maximum deflection specified in regulations, leaving no room for interpretation.
Driver defense
Piastri defends McLaren's use of flexible rear wing
Oscar Piastri, McLaren's Australian driver who won the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, defended his team's use of the flexible rear wing. He insisted that it is legal and passes all tests.
He also emphasized that it's not a "magic bullet" that makes McLaren the dominant team in Formula 1.
Piastri clarified that the wing design is fully compliant with FIA regulations, which generally prohibit movable aerodynamic devices, and isn't in a "gray area."
Rule clarification
Verstappen calls for FIA clarification on wing rules
Max Verstappen, the current standings leader, has called for the FIA to provide a "clarification" of how the rules work in practice and how much wings can bend.
He said, "It's clear that it's moving quickly. Whether it's smart or not is debatable, but ultimately, it's up to the FIA to determine its legality."
This statement underscores ongoing debates within Formula 1 about technical regulations and their enforcement.
Season
McLaren's impressive season so far
McLaren are currently leading in the Constructors Championship standings with 476 points after Osacar Piastri's win and Lando Norris's P4 finish in Baku.
McLaren are now the Championship leaders for the first time since 2014. They are closely trailed by Red Bull in second position with 456 points.
McLaren have had 14 podium finishes this season out of the 17 races. Their best finish this season came during the Hungarian GP with both drivers finishing P1 (Piastri) and P2 (Norris).