F1: FIA Revises Rear Wing Deflection Test Ahead of Chinese Grand Prix

F1 will enforce stricter rear wing tests at the Chinese GP to stop teams from exploiting flexing for an aerodynamic edge, ensuring fair competition.

By Divyam Dubey

18 Mar, 2025

1 min read

Formula 1 will introduce stricter rear wing flexibility tests at the Chinese Grand Prix, aiming to crack down on aerodynamic loopholes. The FIA made the decision after discovering that some teams designed wings to pass static tests but flex at high speeds, creating a hidden "mini-DRS" effect. This flexibility reduces drag and improves straight-line speed, giving drivers an unfair advantage.

Initially, the FIA planned to introduce tougher load-deflection tests at the Spanish Grand Prix. However, these new tests will specifically target the upper rear wing, ensuring teams comply with stricter regulations. This move aims to promote fair competition and prevent teams from bending the rules through clever wing designs.

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The statement reads: 'As has been previously communicated, between the end of the 2024 season and the start of the 2025 season, the FIA exercised the authority it is granted under Article 3.15.1 of the Technical Regulations to introduce either new or more challenging load-deflection tests for the front wing (from Race 9, Spanish Grand Prix), the upper rear wing, and the beam rear wing.

'In addition, the FIA requested to the teams to use cameras in Free Practice Sessions to monitor the on-track deformations exhibited by the cars during the Australian Grand Prix.

'Having analysed footage from the rear wing deformations combined to the static deflections measured inside the FIA garage in Melbourne, the FIA has concluded that sufficient grounds exist for a tougher test to be introduced from the forthcoming Chinese Grand Prix on the upper rear wing.

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The stricter measures will be enforced at the Chinese Grand Prix, which runs from 21st to 23rd March. Teams will need to comply with the updated rules as they prepare for the return of F1 to Shanghai.