Mercedes recently drew attention by introducing an upgraded front wing on their W15 car at the Monaco Grand Prix, which quickly became a talking point in Formula 1 circles.
The modifications reportedly played a significant role in the team’s improved performance, leading them to secure their first pole position and podium finish of the season at the following race in Canada. This improvement prompted some within the industry to label it a “eureka” moment, with speculation swirling that Mercedes may have found a critical advantage, sometimes described as a “silver bullet.”
However, this very success led to suspicions. Auto Motor und Sport reported that Red Bull had concerns about the legality of the new front wing, suspecting it might be bending beyond the allowed limits during races. They allegedly approached the FIA to request a thorough examination of the component. When questioned about this, Red Bull’s motorsport advisor Helmut Marko clarified on OE24, “You can’t say that,” dismissing claims that Red Bull formally challenged Mercedes with the FIA.
Marko explained that while the TV footage from Montreal did show noticeable wing flexing on the cars of Lewis Hamilton and George Russell, it was expected, “However, the wings had the necessary strength when they were approved. That doesn’t surprise me.” He elaborated on the longstanding practice among teams to push the limits of technical regulations: “It is a popular game of pushing everything to the limit so that it passes the technical inspection. During the race, the wing then lowers, which ensures better aerodynamics.”
The debate over front wing flexibility is nothing new, as Marko pointed out. It resurfaces periodically, especially when such deformation is visible on televised broadcasts. Despite the speculation, Marko noted that the front wings passed the inspections conducted in Montreal. Additional checks are planned for upcoming races in Spain and Austria to ensure compliance as the competition, not just Red Bull, monitors developments closely.
In response to a jest that suggested the controversy could be titled “Red Bull wants to clip Mercedes’ wings,” Marko humorously conceded that only the FIA holds the authority to act in such matters. Meanwhile, in the Constructors’ Championship, Red Bull commands a significant 49-point lead, with Max Verstappen maintaining a 56-point advantage in the Drivers’ standings over Charles Leclerc from Ferrari.
As the championship unfolds, technological innovations and regulatory scrutiny continue to shape the competitive landscape, keeping teams and fans on their toes.
