FIA to introduce tougher rear wing flexing tests after Red Bull controversy

Sam Hall
Wednesday 12 May 2021 14:10

Formula 1 teams will face tougher rear wing flexing tests after Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes commented on the unusual 'bending' on the Red Bull wing at the Spanish Grand Prix.

After qualifying in Barcelona, Hamilton commented that Red Bull "have this bendy wing on the back of their car" which he believed could benefit title rival Max Verstappen by up to three-tenths per lap.

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner refuted any allegation the car may not conform to regulations and suggested his Mercedes opposite number, Toto Wolff, may have been behind the driver's comments.

Of the 'bending', Wolff later opted not to provide any further comment.

The FIA however has responded to footage that showed the flexing by issuing a note to teams informing of tougher static load tests that will be used to prevent rear wings from behaving in a way not intended by the regulations.

To achieve this, the loads wings are subjected to in both 'pull-back' and 'push-down' tests will be increased whilst the tolerances for movement will be reduced.

The tests will come into force from the French Grand Prix next month, with teams permitted to continue using current designs in the upcoming three scheduled races at Monaco, Azerbaijan and Turkey.