P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Sauber could benefit from F1’s flexi-wing clampdown, according to team boss Jonathan Wheatley.
Sauber team principal Jonathan Wheatley believes that the FIA’s crackdown on flexible wings will impact front-running teams the most, with new load tests being introduced at the Spanish Grand Prix. The stricter tests will outlaw the extreme flexing some teams have used for aerodynamic advantage. Wheatley stated that every team on the grid is expected to bring upgrades to comply with the new rules. He expressed optimism that the field could close up in Barcelona, as some teams might have been exploiting the previous flexi-wing rules more than others. Wheatley expects the impact of the new tests to be immediately visible in qualifying at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Sauber, currently 10th in the constructors’ championship, is set to introduce a significant update in Barcelona to improve their performance. Wheatley suggested that the team’s upgrade package for the Spanish GP will include more than just a front wing, with details to be announced before the race weekend.
