Hamilton SLAMS FIA and Mocks Wolff over fer...

Hamilton SLAMS FIA and Mocks Wolff over fer… read more

The Spanish Grand Prix has stirred fresh controversy in Formula 1 as the FIA enforces a new technical directive targeting flexible front wings. Under the updated regulation, teams must now adhere to stricter constraints, reducing the allowed deflection from 15 millimetres to just 10. The move is aimed at reducing aerodynamic manipulation and ensuring a level playing field across all teams. However, the decision has not gone down well with everyone — especially Lewis Hamilton.

Hamilton, a seven-time world champion and vocal figure in the sport, did not hold back in his criticism of the FIA’s approach. Speaking to the media ahead of the race weekend, Hamilton argued that the new rule was yet another example of the governing body applying a short-term fix to a larger issue. He suggested that the real problem lies in the design of the regulations themselves, which create loopholes that teams inevitably exploit.

“The flexi-wing is just a band-aid on a much bigger issue — poor technical regulations,” Hamilton stated. He emphasized that engineers are capable of creating mechanical solutions within the rules, and the FIA’s reliance on post-hoc directives does nothing to address the systemic flaws in how the rules are written.

The crackdown on front wing flexibility is just one of many mid-season directives introduced by the FIA in recent years. Hamilton believes that instead of continuously plugging gaps, the sport needs a full rethink of its technical framework to prevent grey areas from being exploited in the first place.

Adding to the drama, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff made headlines by suggesting that Ferrari — not Red Bull or Mercedes — stands to gain the most from the latest wing restrictions. The statement was particularly intriguing given Hamilton’s upcoming move to Ferrari in 2025, ending his long-standing tenure with Mercedes.

When asked about Wolff’s comments, Hamilton responded with thinly veiled sarcasm. “I don’t know what gives him that impression,” he said, followed by a laugh. “I mean, I hope he’s right.”

Hamilton added that, from what he’s seen in Ferrari’s simulator, the directive hasn’t had any major impact. “In the simulator, it didn’t make much difference,” he said nonchalantly.

The exchange highlighted a shift in the dynamic between Hamilton and Wolff, once seen as close collaborators during Mercedes’ dominant era. Now on opposite sides of the grid, their relationship appears to be cooling, marked by sharp remarks and subtle jabs.

In essence, the Spanish Grand Prix has become more than just a race — it’s a reflection of deeper tensions in the paddock. From disputes over technical regulations to evolving team dynamics, Formula 1’s political theatre remains as intense as the racing itself.