P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Lewis Hamilton believes Formula 1’s flexi-wing clampdown is a step in the wrong direction – because it gets rid of a “Band-Aid for poorly designed technical regulations”
Lewis Hamilton believes that the crackdown on flexi-wings in Formula 1 is a move in the wrong direction as it removes a quick fix for poorly designed technical regulations.
The FIA is tightening its aero elasticity tests starting from the Spanish Grand Prix due to concerns of exploitation in this area by teams.
Teams have been relying on flexible front wings to balance out problems like low-speed understeer and high-speed oversteer present in the current generation of cars.
The elimination of flexi-wings means teams will need to adjust these issues through mechanical elements like suspension stiffness, which could complicate finding a good set-up compromise.
Hamilton mentioned that flexi-wings have been a positive development for teams, making cars nicer to drive, and he questions the reasoning behind the clampdown.
While visible changes due to the new tests at the Spanish Grand Prix seem minimal, the true impact on the competitive order remains uncertain until the cars hit the track.
