Mercedes showcases a new front wing
Onboard footage from the Singapore race highlighted an unusual flexing of Mercedes’ front wing, which introduced a new specification specifically for this weekend. While visually only the last flap appeared altered, the internal structure was completely redesigned. The team conducted months of research on carbon fiber materials, allowing the wing to flex more significantly while still passing the FIA’s rigorous static tests.
By successfully meeting the FIA’s testing requirements, Mercedes has returned to front wing flex levels comparable to those before the technical directive was issued. This innovation has contributed to a noticeable improvement in the car’s performance.
The benefits of a flexible front wing
The advantages of a flexible wing are well-known and can provide a tangible performance boost, particularly in terms of downforce and cornering stability. Mercedes’ recent improvements are therefore no surprise, as the Brackley-based team has consistently focused on developing their front wing, bringing several updates throughout the season.
Red Bull follows suit
Red Bull has also moved in the same direction. Over the course of the season, the Milton Keynes team has introduced more than six different front wing configurations. This demonstrates that development did not stop following the FIA directive, and the upgrades seen on the RB21 indicate that Red Bull has partially recovered the flexibility previously lost.
Red Bull’s new front wing in Singapore
At Singapore, Red Bull unveiled yet another front wing, this time with substantial changes. To address the RB21’s understeer issues, engineers modified the incidence angles on the third and fourth flaps to shift the center of pressure forward and increase overall downforce. Additionally, the flap supports were repositioned further outward, enhancing structural rigidity.
These changes suggest the team has managed to partially restore the wing’s flexibility despite the new technical restrictions. Early results indicate a noticeable performance improvement, similar to Mercedes’ progress.
Exploiting the gray areas of regulations
Both teams have demonstrated skill in navigating the gray areas of the rules. With the current regulatory era nearing its end, it seems unlikely that the FIA will intervene. The absence of official objections regarding these updates reinforces the teams’ ability to innovate within the boundaries of the regulations.
Overall, Singapore highlighted the return of flexible front wings in Formula 1, showing how Mercedes and Red Bull continue to push technical limits to gain performance advantages before the new era of regulations arrives.
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