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FIA Issues Flexi-Wing Warning to McLaren and Mercedes at Spanish Grand Prix
The FIA has officially begun enforcing its revised flexi-wing technical directive (TD018H) at the Spanish Grand Prix, prompting Formula 1 teams to adjust their front wing designs to meet the new, stricter aerodynamic regulations set to shape the 2025 season.
Leading the response were Red Bull and Ferrari, who introduced significant updates to their front wings to ensure compliance. Red Bull targeted the first and second elements of their front wing, focusing on enhancing stiffness in the flaps and tips while minimizing weight gain. The modifications are designed to optimize aero efficiency under the updated rules. Ferrari took a more holistic approach, making changes to the endplates and adjusting the tip rolls, while also refining the distribution of aerodynamic loads both along and across the wing’s surface.
Meanwhile, McLaren has come under scrutiny for not declaring any front wing changes, suggesting it may still be using its previous specification. Mercedes has also not introduced fresh updates at this round but had made earlier modifications during the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix. These prior changes are believed to bring their car in line with the directive. Nevertheless, the FIA has issued a firm warning to both teams: non-compliance with the flexi-wing directive could lead to disqualification if post-race inspections reveal their components breach the updated standards.
Other teams across the midfield and lower end of the grid have responded more clearly. Aston Martin, Haas, Williams, Racing Bulls, and Stake (formerly Alfa Romeo) have all submitted revised front wing designs for Barcelona. While Stake didn’t directly mention the flexi-wing directive in its submission, it introduced a minor tweak between the mainplane and endplate, which is presumed to bring the design into compliance.
In addition to mandatory changes, teams have also used the Spanish Grand Prix as a strategic point to introduce upgrades tailored to the high-downforce demands of the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Ferrari debuted a new rear wing specifically designed for the track. Mercedes rolled out a reprofiled rear wing and made improvements to its floor fences to better channel airflow. Alpine introduced updates to its floor and fences, while Racing Bulls unveiled a new nose and updated the connection between the front wing and endplate. Williams brought changes to the rear brake ducts and added an optional cooling louvre, and Stake refined its floor and engine cover for aerodynamic efficiency.
As the 2025 development cycle intensifies, the Spanish GP serves as a crucial checkpoint before teams shift their attention to the sweeping regulation changes slated for 2026.
