F1 to introduce tighter rear wing tests after Australia flexing

F1 to introduce tighter rear wing tests after Australia flexing evidence

Formula 1 teams will face stricter rear wing flexibility tests from the FIA at the upcoming Chinese Grand Prix, following concerns raised after the Australian Grand Prix. The governing body had closely monitored how rear wings were deforming at high speeds and used high-definition cameras and reference dot stickers on cars to collect precise data.

Upon analyzing both the captured footage and static deformation tests conducted inside the FIA garage in Melbourne, the organization concluded that immediate action was necessary. As reported by Autoracer.it, this has led to the introduction of more stringent rear wing flexibility limits. The FIA had already planned to enforce tighter rear wing flexibility regulations for 2025, capping slot gap variations at 2mm. However, in response to recent observations, they have now accelerated these restrictions, reducing the limit to just 0.5mm starting with the Shanghai race.

Given the short timeframe for teams to comply—having been informed only on the Monday following the Melbourne race—the FIA has implemented a transitional allowance. For the Chinese Grand Prix alone, an additional tolerance of 0.25mm will be permitted, effectively setting the threshold at 0.75mm. After China, the standard limit of 0.5mm will be enforced. Despite these adjustments, the FIA confirmed that all teams tested in Melbourne complied with Article 3.15.17 of the technical regulations, meaning no immediate breaches were detected.

Suspicion of Aero Elasticity Tricks

The FIA’s decision to tighten its scrutiny stems from increasing concerns about aerodynamic elasticity tricks being employed by teams this season. Throughout pre-season testing, Red Bull voiced particular frustration over the behavior of rear wings on rival cars, suspecting that excessive flexing and manipulation of the slot gap were occurring.

One key focus of scrutiny was the Mercedes rear wing, which was observed via rear-facing cameras flexing under aerodynamic load on straights. Additionally, footage from the Australian Grand Prix appeared to reveal certain teams employing a ‘mini-DRS’ effect. This phenomenon had previously surfaced in the latter part of the 2023 season when McLaren developed a clever rear wing design that enhanced straight-line speed. The strategy proved effective, notably contributing to Oscar Piastri’s victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.

However, after rival teams raised concerns and engaged in discussions with the FIA, McLaren agreed to modify their rear wing design to comply with regulations. In an effort to close loopholes ahead of the 2024 season, the FIA revised technical rules to ensure that DRS bodywork could only operate in two distinct positions—fully open or fully closed—eliminating the possibility of intermediate flexing states. Despite these measures, teams have continued exploring ways to push the limits of flexibility regulations, prompting the FIA to take further action.

Red Bull’s Concerns and Continued Exploitation

Red Bull technical director Pierre Wache expressed disappointment that, despite the FIA’s efforts, teams were still finding ways to leverage flexible aero components. During pre-season testing, he told The Race:

“It is still going on. I think Ferrari and McLaren are doing the mini-DRS stuff still.”

Observations of flow-vis paint applied to certain rear wings also raised eyebrows, as they suggested unusual aerodynamic behavior at high speeds. Flow-vis, a fluorescent paint used to visualize airflow, revealed unexpected movement patterns on some cars, further reinforcing suspicions that flexing mechanisms were still in play.

Although the FIA’s tightened restrictions aim to curb these practices, history suggests that teams will continually innovate to exploit every available aerodynamic advantage. The introduction of new flexibility tests will likely force teams to rethink their designs and make necessary modifications to remain compliant.

The Role of Rear Wing Flexibility in Performance

Rear wing flexibility plays a crucial role in Formula 1 aerodynamics. Under high-speed conditions, a rear wing that flexes backward can reduce drag, allowing cars to achieve higher top speeds on straights. Conversely, when cornering or under braking, the wing can return to its original position, generating more downforce and improving grip.

Teams have long sought to balance these characteristics to maximize performance. The concept of a ‘mini-DRS’—where slight deformations in the wing effectively create an additional drag-reduction effect—has been particularly controversial. While the FIA has clear regulations against movable aerodynamic devices, determining the legality of flexible components has always been a challenge.

The governing body uses both static and dynamic tests to evaluate rear wing compliance. Static tests involve applying a set amount of force to the wing and measuring its deformation, while dynamic tests analyze real-time footage and telemetry data to assess movement during races. The introduction of high-definition cameras and reference dot stickers in Melbourne provided the FIA with more precise data, ultimately prompting its decision to enforce stricter regulations.

Future Implications and Team Reactions

While the immediate impact of these tighter rear wing tests remains uncertain, they are likely to affect teams that have aggressively pursued flexible aerodynamic designs. Those relying on subtle deformations to enhance straight-line speed may need to make modifications, potentially leading to shifts in competitive balance.

Historically, such regulatory interventions have forced teams to adapt quickly. In 2021, for example, the FIA introduced new rear wing deflection tests mid-season after concerns were raised about Mercedes’ and Red Bull’s designs. While teams initially struggled to adjust, they eventually found ways to compensate for the loss of performance.

In the current scenario, teams like McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes—who have been suspected of leveraging flexible aero concepts—may need to make changes to their cars ahead of the Chinese Grand Prix. Given the short timeframe for compliance, this could pose challenges in optimizing performance under the new constraints.

Red Bull, on the other hand, has been vocal about the issue from the start. If their rivals have indeed been gaining an advantage through questionable rear wing designs, these new tests could potentially shift the balance in Red Bull’s favor. However, if other teams have already developed workarounds, the performance impact may be minimal.

Additional FIA Measures: Front Wing Tests Coming in Spain

Beyond rear wing flexibility, the FIA is also introducing more rigorous stress tests for front wings, starting from the Spanish Grand Prix. This decision follows concerns that teams may be employing similar flexing techniques on front wing elements to manipulate airflow and improve aerodynamics.

By enforcing stricter limits on both front and rear wing deformations, the FIA aims to ensure that aerodynamic designs remain within the intended regulatory framework. The governing body has made it clear that any form of aero elasticity designed to circumvent regulations will not be tolerated.

Conclusion

The FIA’s decision to tighten rear wing flexibility regulations ahead of the Chinese Grand Prix underscores its commitment to maintaining a level playing field in Formula 1. While all teams tested in Melbourne were deemed legal, ongoing suspicions of aero elasticity tricks have prompted the governing body to act swiftly.

With slot gap flexibility now restricted to 0.5mm (with a temporary 0.75mm allowance for China), teams will need to ensure their rear wing designs comply with the new limits. Given the importance of aerodynamics in modern F1, any regulatory change in this area has the potential to impact performance and shake up the competitive order.

As teams head into Shanghai, the big question is whether these stricter tests will genuinely curb flexible aero exploits—or if engineers will find yet another way to push the boundaries within the new rules. One thing is certain: in the relentless pursuit of speed, Formula 1 teams will never stop innovating, and the FIA will need to remain vigilant in enforcing its technical regulations.