BREAKING: Lewis Hamilton rejects FIA new rule for this coming

BREAKING: Lewis Hamilton rejects FIA new rule for this coming… Read more

Lewis Hamilton Slams FIA’s Latest Front-Wing Rule as a “Waste of Money” Ahead of Grand Prix

Lewis Hamilton has fiercely criticized the FIA’s new technical directive on front-wing flexibility, calling it a “waste of money” just days before this weekend’s Grand Prix. The seven-time world champion expressed frustration over the rule change, which was implemented at the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona, claiming it made no real difference on track despite forcing teams to spend heavily on redesigned components.

The FIA introduced the new front-wing flex tests to eliminate aero advantages believed to benefit teams like McLaren. The intention was to enforce stricter structural compliance and level the playing field. However, Hamilton dismissed the impact of the directive, suggesting the FIA missed the mark.

“What a waste of money,” Hamilton said. “It’s literally changed nothing. Everyone’s bent wings still bend, it is just half the bending, and everyone’s had to make new wings, and spend more money to make these. It doesn’t make sense. We should be giving it to charity.”

The Mercedes-turned-Ferrari driver made the remarks after qualifying fifth in Barcelona, outperforming teammate Charles Leclerc but still well behind the McLarens, who locked out the front row for the first time since 1998.

Hamilton’s criticism shines a light on the growing tension between the sport’s regulators and drivers over the constant introduction of technical directives. Although intended to close the performance gap among teams, many of these changes require costly modifications — particularly painful for teams operating under strict budget caps.

Hamilton’s frustration is also personal. He is yet to secure a podium in his first nine races with Ferrari, and the latest directive may have only added complexity to an already struggling setup. His claim that teams could have spent the money on charitable causes highlights his belief that the directive lacked substance and failed to bring about any meaningful change.

The FIA’s clampdown on front-wing flexibility involved a revised test procedure, using deflection measurements and load application to limit how much the front wings can flex under aerodynamic pressure. The move was seen as targeting teams who had engineered clever ways to legally bypass previous testing criteria. Despite this, Hamilton believes the changes have only served to waste resources without affecting the competitive order.

“The cars with bending wings are still out there. It’s just a slightly different bend now. So what was the point of all this?” he asked.

Hamilton’s remarks may spark further debate among drivers and engineers. The FIA is expected to continue refining its approach to technical policing, especially if teams find new loopholes. For now, the driver’s message is clear: he wants meaningful changes that lead to real competition, not rules that lead to unnecessary spending.

As the paddock turns its attention to this weekend’s Grand Prix, Hamilton’s comments will likely resonate with others who feel burdened by the FIA’s mid-season interventions. Whether the directive will have a long-term impact on team performances remains to be seen, but for Hamilton, the verdict is already in — it’s too much cost for too little gain.