McLaren’s Flexi-Wing Controversy: Not the “Secret Sauce” Behind F1 Success, Insists CEO Zak Brown

McLaren maintains that the debated F1 'flexible' rear-wing is not their "magic ingredient."

"They're understandably focusing on our car right now and jumping to conclusions, many of which are wrong."

McLaren's head, Zak Brown, has made it clear that the team's debated flexible rear-wing is not the key factor driving their achievements in the 2024 F1 season.

McLaren's back spoiler grabbed attention following Oscar Piastri's remarkable win at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.

His remarkable speed on the straight stretches enabled him to pass Charles Leclerc and then successfully hold off the Ferrari driver for more than twelve laps.

Videos circulating on social media caught the attention of several racing teams and the FIA.

During the weekend in Singapore, McLaren revealed that after talks with the FIA, they were pleased to implement a "minor adjustment."

The specific rear wing is intended for use only on tracks that require low downforce, such as Las Vegas. This comes after Lando Norris led the pack at the Marina Bay Street Circuit, a race where this rear wing was not utilized.

In an interview with The Times, Brown discussed the controversy over the rear wing.

"He mentioned that regardless of who is in the lead, all eyes are constantly on the car to grasp their strategy."

"It's completely understandable that folks are gazing at our vehicle right now and jumping to conclusions, many of which are wrong. We've successfully cleared all the tests."

"We proposed a minor adjustment, mainly because we believe it won't significantly impact and there's been quite a bit of fuss about it – to show that there's nothing hidden or special involved, we decided, 'Okay, we'll make a small change to it.'"

Brown fully grasps the reasons behind McLaren's competitors voicing grievances against it, despite their arguments being incorrect.

"Brown clarified, saying, 'It's their duty to stir things up; that's what rivals are for.'"

"We take it as a compliment that our car is drawing attention and facing challenges. Our vehicle boasts significant innovative features."

Approaching the United States Grand Prix, McLaren is securely ahead in the F1 constructors’ championship standings.

They're on track to secure their first team championship since 1998.

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