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Verstappen Slams FIA Over ‘Unfair’ Timing of Spanish GP Rule Change
Jos Verstappen, father of reigning Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen, has publicly criticized the FIA for implementing what he sees as a poorly timed rule change ahead of the 2025 Spanish Grand Prix. The former F1 driver has labeled the new regulation—targeting front wing flexibility—as unfair, claiming it should have been enforced from the beginning of the season to ensure a more balanced championship fight.
As the 2025 F1 season heads into its ninth round in Spain, McLaren have emerged as the surprise frontrunners, boasting a 176-point lead in the constructors’ standings over Red Bull. Their impressive early-season form has left many stunned, including Red Bull, who dominated the grid just two years ago. However, despite Red Bull’s struggles, Max Verstappen remains firmly in the hunt for a fifth consecutive world title. With two wins from the first eight races, the Dutchman sits only 25 points behind current championship leader Oscar Piastri.
The upcoming Spanish Grand Prix will see the FIA enforce a stricter interpretation of front wing flexibility rules. These new technical directives are expected to force McLaren and potentially other teams to make design changes to their cars, which could impact performance. Speaking to Dutch newspaper De Limburger, Jos Verstappen questioned the FIA’s timing, suggesting the delay in enforcement may have given some teams a competitive advantage for too long.
“They want to make the season more exciting, so one team doesn’t win 20 races and make it boring,” Jos said, referencing his son’s dominant 2023 campaign. “But there should still be fairness. These flexible front wings are only being banned now, and that means certain teams have already benefited from them. I don’t think that’s fair.”
The comments come as debate intensifies over the impact of the upcoming regulation change. Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur has referred to the new rule as potentially a “game changer” for the rest of the 2025 season. Although Ferrari have had an even tougher start than Red Bull, Vasseur suggested that the updated regulation may help balance competition between more teams on race weekends, even if it doesn’t completely alter the championship trajectory.
If Jos Verstappen’s concerns prove valid, McLaren—who have appeared to benefit the most from the flexible front wing designs—may find their pace slightly compromised. This could open the door for rivals like Red Bull and Ferrari to close the gap, especially with Max Verstappen well-positioned to mount a title challenge.
As F1 heads into the Spanish Grand Prix, all eyes will be on how the rule change affects team performance. For Max Verstappen, currently chasing a record-equalling fifth world championship, the timing might just be perfect. If McLaren’s edge is dulled by the new directive, Verstappen could gain ground and put further pressure on Piastri in the title race.
Ultimately, Jos Verstappen’s frustration highlights a growing concern among teams and fans alike: the importance of consistent and timely regulation enforcement to maintain the integrity of competition in Formula 1.
