FIA Confirms Compliance
The FIA has officially clarified that McLaren’s front wing, which came under scrutiny during and after the 2025 Hungarian Grand Prix, fully complies with the 2025 Formula 1 technical regulations. Concerns from rival teams about a possible “flexi‑wing” advantage prompted the investigation, but no breaches of Article 3.15.4 of the technical code were found.
Nikolas Tombazis, FIA Single-Seater Director, acknowledged that front wings are a “complex area” because of how they flex under aerodynamic loads but emphasized that McLaren’s design passed both static and dynamic deflection tests.
Enhanced Monitoring Introduced
The FIA stated that it has enhanced monitoring of front‑wing behavior on track using onboard cameras and trackside data since the Belgian GP. This approach allows the FIA to observe real-world flex and will continue through multiple circuits with different downforce profiles to ensure ongoing compliance.
While the FIA reserves the right to introduce new testing protocols mid‑season if irregularities are observed, it confirmed that no immediate regulation changes are planned.
Context and Team Response
Rival teams, including Red Bull and Ferrari, had raised concerns over McLaren’s and Mercedes’ front‑wing concepts, suggesting that they may bend under high speed to create an aerodynamic advantage.
Following the investigation, McLaren was cleared of any wrongdoing. The team also cooperated with the FIA by sharing design details, ensuring complete transparency.
Closing Note
The FIA’s statement puts an end, for now, to speculation around McLaren’s front‑wing legality. All current designs remain within the 2025 F1 regulatory framework, but continued monitoring will be applied throughout the remainder of the season.
Leave a Reply