P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The Spanish Grand Prix will see a change to the F1 front wing regulations, aimed at reducing the amount of deflection from flexible front wing designs. McLaren has been touted as a team that has benefitted from the old rules, so what changes has the reigning constructors’ champion made?
When comparing the front wings of the Monaco Grand Prix and the Spain Grand Prix, the new regulation to reduce deflection stands out, especially noticeable in the upper flap.
The upper flap now stops slightly more abruptly on the side of the wing endplate than before when it ended at a sharp point.
Furthermore, an extra arch support has been added to the upper part for a more secure connection to the wing element below, directly addressing flex prevention.
Opinions on the potential impact of these modifications vary widely, with Ferrari’s Fred Vasseur seeing it as a potential “game changer” while Mercedes’ Toto Wolff implying a more conservative approach from Ferrari.
McLaren’s Andrea Stella, on the other hand, downplays the likely impact, suggesting minimal changes that won’t alter F1’s hierarchy drastically.
The upcoming weekend will provide insights into the real effects of these changes, as the modifications are put to the test on the track.
