FIA taking new look at flexing bodywork amid intrigue over McLaren’s rear wing · RaceFans

Formula 1’s governing body is considering whether rules changes are needed after footage emerged of McLaren’s rear wing deforming in Baku.

The FIA stressed it has received no complaints about any team’s use of flexible bodywork and is not responding to any specific aerodynamic behaviour.

Oscar Piastri won last weekend’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix for McLaren. Afterwards onboard camera footage of the MCL38’s rear wing showed it deforming at high speed in a manner which could offer a performance advantage.

The intrigue surrounded the outer edges of the DRS flap on McLaren’s rear wing. As the car approached top sped on Baku’s long straights, when its DRS was not activated, the edges of the flag appeared to flex. This could allow air to pass through the DRS flap when it is not open at high speed, stalling the wing and further increasing the car’s maximum speed.

Piastri repeatedly thwarted Charles Leclerc’s attempts to pass him for the lead even when the Ferrari driver was able to use his DRS. “They are so fast in the straight,” Leclerc remarked on his radio as he tried to attack the McLaren.

The FIA confirmed in a statement to RaceFans it is examining the data it collected at last weekend’s race and could implement changes to the regulations for future events.

“The FIA is closely monitoring the flexibility of bodywork on all cars and reserves the right to request teams to make modifications at any point during the season,” it said. “However, if a team successfully passes all deflection tests and adheres to the regulations and technical directives, they are deemed to be in full compliance, and no further action will be taken.

“The FIA is currently reviewing data and any additional evidence that has emerged from the Baku GP and is considering any mitigating measures for future implementation. This is part of the standard process when scrutineering technical legality, and the FIA retains the authority to introduce regulatory changes during the season if required.”

McLaren is expected to use a different specification of rear wing for this weekend’s Singapore Grand Prix, which requires a much higher downforce level than Baku.

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