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FIA Enforces Flexi-Wing Ban Ahead of Spanish GP as Teams Rush to Update Designs
At the Spanish Grand Prix, the FIA’s enforcement of a new technical directive—TD018H—targeting flexible front wings has triggered a wave of aerodynamic updates across the Formula 1 grid. While many teams have responded with revised front wing designs to comply with the stricter regulations, McLaren stands out for not declaring any changes to its front wing. This decision contrasts with top teams like Red Bull and Ferrari, who have both introduced updates to stay within the new compliance framework.
Red Bull, for instance, has updated several components of its front wing, including the first and second flaps and wing tips. The team has emphasized that the adjustments are intended to improve the rigidity of the structure without significantly increasing weight. These changes also help fine-tune the aerodynamic load distribution, keeping in step with the FIA’s upcoming 2025 technical regulation changes, which begin enforcement this weekend.
Ferrari has made similar modifications to its front wing, particularly to the endplates and outboard tip rolls. The goal here is to enhance load distribution along both the chord and span of the wing elements to align with the FIA’s tougher stance on flexi-wings.
Interestingly, Mercedes had already made changes to its front wing earlier during the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix. The move now appears to have been a proactive response to the directive, as the team anticipated the regulatory shift. Other teams—including Aston Martin, Haas, Williams, Racing Bulls, and Stake—have also submitted front wing updates to meet the FIA’s requirements. Stake, however, described its adjustment as a minor change at the junction of the mainplane and endplate, without directly referencing the directive.
In addition to front wing updates, teams have used the Spanish GP as an opportunity to introduce various circuit-specific aerodynamic upgrades. Ferrari has brought back a rear wing variant initially seen late in the 2024 season, optimized for high downforce and now slightly refined for better airflow.
Mercedes has introduced a new rear wing configuration tailored for the Barcelona circuit, as well as updated floor fences to enhance underbody airflow. Alpine has concentrated on reworking its floor surface and fences to refine its overall aero package.
Racing Bulls will debut a redesigned nose with adjustments linked to its updated front wing. Williams, meanwhile, has also revised its brake duct design and added an optional cooling louvre, while Stake has tweaked its floor and engine cover for better airflow and downforce.