The FIA intends to restrict the use of so-called ‘flexi-wings’. Last season, there was much controversy over the flexible front and rear wings of teams like McLaren. Certain parts would bend under aerodynamic pressure, creating a sort of mini-DRS. Reportedly, Red Bull is ‘frustrated’ that the FIA is only intervening now, as the team has already invested a lot of time and money in the development of such components.
In early February, the FIA announced that flexi-wings will be definitively banned in 2025. The new regulations already impose stricter requirements on the mobility of the rear wing. During the race weekend in Spain (May 30 to June 1), additional tests will be conducted to also limit the flexibility of the front wing. The Race reports that wings will now only be allowed to bend ten millimeters.
‘Red Bull Frustrated’
“After further analysis of the 2024 season, we are determined to ensure that the flexibility of the bodywork is no longer a point of contention in 2025,” the FIA stated. “This phased approach allows teams to adapt without unnecessarily discarding existing parts.” However, Red Bull is reportedly not satisfied with this regulation. The renowned Italian platform Autoracer.it reports that Max Verstappen‘s team has already invested a lot of time and money in their own version of the flexi-wings.”
Ferrari Admits to Losing Valuable Development Time for Flexi-Wings
“In Milton Keynes, it was assumed that the FIA would not impose additional restrictions,” the Italians said. “Therefore, the team heavily invested in flexible components for the RB21. However, to their great frustration, Red Bull discovered that the FIA had implemented the previously requested adjustments to the regulations.” Movable parts on the front and rear wings can yield significant aerodynamic advantages. For instance, onboard footage from the McLaren MCL38 during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix revealed that the rear wing bent so far that it effectively opened a kind of DRS-flap.
