The FIA has stepped in to ban McLaren’s controversial low-drag rear wing following persistent protests from Red Bull. Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s senior advisor, hailed the intervention, which came after Red Bull lodged three protests against the component. Marko revealed that Red Bull would now turn their scrutiny towards McLaren’s front wing for potential rule breaches.
At the heart of the controversy is McLaren’s rear wing, which allegedly caused a partial DRS (Drag Reduction System) effect during high-speed sections of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Onboard footage of Oscar Piastri’s MCL38 showed the upper flap lifting under aerodynamic pressure, an action that suggested reduced drag without DRS activation. This dynamic behavior raised concerns about compliance, despite the wing initially passing FIA’s static tests and scrutiny.
The FIA’s investigation prompted a directive mandating modifications to McLaren’s rear wing to prevent such flexing. Directive TD34 clarifies the FIA’s stance on structural alterations induced by secondary parameters such as temperature or aerodynamic load. It states, “Designs whose structural characteristics are altered by secondary parameters, so as to produce (whilst running at the track) a different deflection characteristic than when stationary during the FIA checks. Examples of secondary parameters could be temperature, aerodynamic load etc.”
In response, McLaren held discussions with the FIA and agreed to make the necessary adjustments. In a statement, the team noted, “Whilst our Baku rear wing complies with the regulations and passes all FIA deflection tests, McLaren has proactively offered to make some minor adjustments to the wing following our conversations with the FIA. We would also expect the FIA to have similar conversations with other teams in relation to the compliance of their rear wings.”
Marko celebrated the ruling while issuing a strong warning regarding McLaren’s front wing. “Three times we protested against McLaren’s rear wing. Today the FIA made a very correct decision. McLaren’s rear wing is not allowed. Now it’s time to look at their front wing,” Marko stated. Red Bull plans to investigate the legality of McLaren’s front wing in the coming races.
This development comes at a crucial time in the season, as McLaren recently surged ahead of Red Bull in the Constructors’ Championship following the Baku GP, holding a 20-point lead. Red Bull has been grappling with setup and balance issues with their RB20, which has affected their performance.
The FIA’s ruling and McLaren’s willingness to comply might set a precedent for future aerodynamic developments, emphasizing the balance between innovation and regulation adherence. As the season progresses, the scrutiny on car designs and the FIA’s enforcement of rules will play a critical role in shaping the competitive landscape of Formula 1.
