The new season of Formula 1 started with excitement and controversy, featuring McLaren's Lando Norris winning in Australia. As teams prepare for the Chinese Grand Prix, the International Automobile Federation has announced changes to the technical regulations that will affect the aerodynamics of the cars.
The FIA has decided to introduce stricter tests on the aerodynamics of the cars, specifically regarding the flexibility control of the upper rear wing. After requiring the installation of cameras to monitor the deformation of the rear wings in Melbourne, a new limit on the variation between the main plane and the flap of the rear wing will be applied. Starting from the Chinese Grand Prix, this limit will be reduced to 0.5 mm with an additional tolerance of 0.25 mm to allow teams to adapt.
The FIA confirmed that all cars competing in Melbourne were within the existing regulations, but these changes will force teams to review the design and stiffness of their rear wings. Additionally, further controls will be implemented from the Spanish Grand Prix onwards, reinforcing tests on the front wing and the rear beam wing.
These modifications aim to eliminate aerodynamic advantages derived from excessive flexibility of the wings, ensuring that the cars comply with regulations and promoting fairer competition. Teams will need to quickly adapt to these new rules in search of better performance during the Chinese Grand Prix, which will take place this Sunday at 4 AM (Argentinian time).
