McLaren’s ‘Mini DRS’ Controversy Takes Center Stage as FIA Reviews Azerbaijan GP Flexi-Wing Saga

Focus on McLaren's 'mini DRS' intensifies as FIA evaluates possible measures against F1 flexible wings

Following the F1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, McLaren's so-called 'mini DRS' has attracted attention.

The FIA has announced it is examining "data and further evidence" concerning the F1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, focusing on the rear wing of McLaren's car.

Oscar Piastri of McLaren secured his season's second win with a remarkable performance in Baku, holding off Charles Leclerc's Ferrari. However, video footage from the race has drawn attention to the rear wing of the MCL38.

A few weeks have passed since the Formula 1 regulatory authority absolved McLaren of any violations related to flexible wings, following an investigation into their front wing.

Now, focus has shifted to a clever maneuver involving McLaren's rear wing, introducing a new chapter in the ongoing saga of flexible wings.

Footage from the backward-pointing camera on Piastri's McLaren seemed to capture the upper part of the rear wing bending during high-speed runs on the straight sections of the Baku circuit.

A statement from the FIA indicated: "The FIA is diligently observing the adaptability of the bodywork across all vehicles and maintains the authority to ask teams to implement changes at any time throughout the season.

"Nonetheless, should a team manage to clear all deflection evaluations while sticking to the rules and technical guidelines, they will be considered fully compliant, and no additional measures will be pursued."

The FIA is in the process of examining information and any new evidence that has come to light from the Baku Grand Prix, and is evaluating potential corrective actions for future adoption.

"This falls within the typical procedure for examining the technical compliance, and the FIA holds the power to implement changes to the regulations throughout the season if necessary."

A representative from McLaren confirmed to BBC Sport that their vehicle met all required standards and adhered to the regulations.

Leclerc highlighted the McLaren's superior straight-line speed as the reason he couldn't retake the lead from Piastri after trying to do so.

"The Monegasque mentioned, "Their pace on the straight sections was unexpectedly high due to their choice of a less downforce-focused setup than ours, rendering them too quick for us to consider passing."

Piastri's victory in Baku marked McLaren's fourth win of the 2024 season, propelling them past Red Bull to take the top spot in the constructors' championship with a 20-point advantage as they head into this weekend's Grand Prix in Singapore.

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