In a strategic move, FIA has commenced its detailed inspection of flexi-wings in the Belgian Grand Prix practice, involving selected teams.
- Mercedes, Ferrari, and McLaren are equipped with additional FIA cameras to monitor wing flexibility during practice at Spa.
- This initiative follows non-compliance discoveries, intending to enhance understanding of wing flexibility across teams.
- Selected teams, including Red Bull and Aston Martin, were chosen due to camera availability constraints.
- Mercedes ensures compliance, contributing data despite no breach, aiming for transparent regulation understanding.
The latest buzz in the F1 circuit involves the FIA’s meticulous scrutiny of flexi-wings during the Belgian Grand Prix practice sessions. As the race weekend gears up, selected teams are under the microscope – specifically Mercedes, Ferrari, and McLaren, among others. This examination follows revelations of flexing wings, prompting investigations into maintaining fair play on the track.
Running under a vigilant lens, these teams have been outfitted with extra cameras from the FIA, a move that’s capturing significant attention. The purpose? To effectively monitor the dynamics of front wings under aerodynamic pressures, hoping to gather comprehensive data that could shape future regulations.
Why not examine every car? The straightforward answer is a limited availability of cameras. According to PlanetF1.com, the choice of teams like Red Bull and Aston Martin for these additional checks hinged on this logistical aspect, ensuring the process remains as efficient as possible.
Mercedes, a key player in this scenario, is leading the charge with compliance. Andrew Shovlin, their trackside engineering director, confirmed their participation, emphasizing the data-collection nature of this exercise. ‘We haven’t got a concern on the flexibility, as our car is built to pass the necessary tests,’ Shovlin stated, adding that they aim to assist the FIA in understanding technical aspects better.
The ongoing efforts to capture footage with side-mounted cameras are part of a broader strategy laid out by the FIA. The governing body is keen to chart the movement and deformation of wings, using this data to inform and perhaps tighten future racing regulations. Their spokesperson pointed out that current camera placements do not offer a complete overview, hence, this detailed approach focusing on various frontal flexibility factors.
Thus, teams collaborate with the FIA, knowingly working within the margins to ensure all practices are above board. By documenting these findings, the FIA seeks to hold teams accountable, ensuring everyone races on a level field.
This initiative marks a significant step towards enhanced regulatory understanding and fair competition in F1.