McLaren is confident they won’t be affected by the recent flexi-wing clampdown at the Spanish Grand Prix, as they have already tested a stiffer wing successfully at Imola. The FIA introduced stricter tests in Barcelona, reducing the vertical deflection tolerances for both sides and one side applications. The front wing flap flexing tolerance was also tightened from 5mm to 3mm under certain loads. McLaren was known for exploiting front wing flexing, but the impact of the new regulation remains uncertain for all teams.
Ferrari expressed uncertainty about the regulation’s impact, while Red Bull’s Verstappen and Horner are less concerned about significant changes in the pecking order. McLaren tested their reinforced front wing in Imola with positive results, indicating minimal performance impact. Team principal Stella anticipates tighter competition in Barcelona, but believes field tightening is not solely due to the new technical directive on front wings. Strengthening the front wing’s carbon fibre is seen as a structural, not aerodynamic change.
