Verstappen Confident on Wing Flex Tests Ahead of Spanish GP
Max Verstappen expressed confidence that the latest FIA clampdown on front wing flexing will not affect Red Bull Racing’s performance in the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix. Despite recent regulatory changes aimed at tightening aerodynamics, Verstappen believes that any gains from wing flexing were marginal and manageable for teams.
The FIA’s latest measures, which come into effect at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, add to previous restrictions on rear wing flexibility. The increased scrutiny has generated significant interest in the paddock, particularly around McLaren, which some believe may have leveraged aero-elasticity for competitive advantage.
Verstappen stated, "Not for us. I can say that with quite a lot of confidence. I think those wings never really gave us a massive performance gain." He emphasized that the fundamental performance of a well-designed car does not hinge on these regulations: "If you have a good car, you have a good car."
Recent performances show a resurgence for Red Bull, as Verstappen secured a victory in Imola, showcasing the RB21’s capabilities. However, he remarked on possible inconsistencies in rivals’ performances, noting, "I don’t think McLaren’s performance at Imola will necessarily carry over to Barcelona."
Verstappen identified Barcelona as a high-downforce circuit that should favor Red Bull’s strengths, particularly in fast corners. He noted the difficulties his team has faced on bumpy street circuits, attributing some struggles to the need for improved performance in medium- and low-speed corners.
"The more high-speed corners, that will be more competitive for us,” Verstappen concluded, highlighting the importance of adapting the car’s setup to enhance performance under diverse conditions.
As teams prepare for the challenges of the Spanish GP, the focus will be on how the updated regulations influence race dynamics and the relative pecking order in the championship.
