P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Williams boss James Vowles revealed that F1’s teams convinced the FIA to postpone the flexi-wing clampdown from Imola to Catalunya due to difficulties posed by the Monaco GP.
In 2024, the flexi-wing saga became a significant point of contention among top Formula 1 teams, with Ferrari and Red Bull challenging the legality of McLaren’s design efforts. Despite investigations by the FIA, no team was found guilty of rule violations, leading to no changes in regulations by the end of the season. However, a new technical directive issued in late January mandated a reduction in wing flexibility to 10mm under load-bearing tests, causing frustration and a rush for development across the grid. The FIA originally intended to implement the change at Round 7, but due to logistical challenges ahead of the Monaco GP, it was postponed to Round 9 in Spain. Williams Team Principal Vowles noted that while the rule change poses a development challenge for teams, Williams is less affected compared to top teams already deeply invested in flexi-wing advancements. Despite the forthcoming changes, Vowles expressed confidence in Williams’ ability to adapt and suggested that the impact of the directive may be more pronounced for other teams. The stage is set for a heightened battle in F1 development as the FIA tightens regulations.
