P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The new FIA technical directive, TD018, or rather the modified version of it, has stolen motorsport headlines, and its motivations have been widely discussed. Was it triggered by McLaren and aimed at Red Bull? Here are the facts and fables at a glance.
The FIA has decided to tighten the rules on flexi-wings, reducing the allowed movement from 15mm to 10mm, and introducing new tests to ensure compliance. These restrictions will apply to rear wings from the start of the upcoming F1 season in Melbourne, and later to front wings from the ninth race in Spain. The phased implementation is based on the assumption that 2025 car designs will meet the new standards for rear wings initially. This delay in applying the rules to front wings gives teams time to adapt without major disruptions, integrating the changes into planned updates by summer. While some speculate about the impact on team performance, there is no evidence to suggest McLaren influenced the rule change or targeted Red Bull specifically. Red Bull, which adopted flexible wings later than others, can adjust without major concerns due to their different car design philosophy. Overall, the new rules are not expected to significantly alter the competitive landscape in the upcoming F1 season.
