Sauber team boss Jonathan Wheatley warns that the balance of power could significantly shift from the Spanish Grand Prix onwards. In the lead-up to the Spanish race weekend, several teams are pinning their hopes on the announced FIA tests. In Barcelona, the organization will indeed enforce stricter controls on flexible components. In particular, McLaren is believed to have greatly benefited from the so-called flexi-wings over the past few months.
The Spanish Grand Prix will be the first race where the FIA wants to check more accurately whether wing elements do not bend too far under aerodynamic pressure. Some components would be so flexible at high speed that they generate extra downforce. The organization wants to put a stop to this. Some teams, including Ferrari, are bringing new wings to Spain. Front-runner McLaren – which is most often suspected of using flexi-wings – insists that it does not need to make any adjustments.
Spanish GP a Turning Point?
However, Jonathan Wheatley believes that the stricter measures during the Spanish Grand Prix could have far-reaching consequences for the current balance of power. “It’s a significant factor that can really make a difference in performance,” said the Brit during the race weekend in Miami. “So I think the pecking order could change quite suddenly. Look at how small the margins are at the top and in the midfield – such a small change can make a huge difference.”
Meanwhile, Sauber sees the rule change as an opportunity to make a leap forward, as the team is currently at the bottom of the championship. Admittedly, the team is mainly working on preparations for 2026 and the takeover by car giant Audi, but upgrades are also planned for the current car. “We have an upgrade program,” Wheatley assured. “We are trying to map out everything we have developed so far, in order to put together a more targeted package.” Whether the team will also introduce updates during the Spanish Grand Prix is unknown.
