McLaren’s ‘Mini DRS’ Under FIA Scrutiny: Flexi-Wing Debate Reignited After Piastri’s Baku Triumph

Focus on McLaren's 'mini DRS' as FIA evaluates measures regarding F1 flexible wings

The so-called 'mini DRS' technology used by McLaren is being closely examined after the recent F1 race in Azerbaijan.

The FIA has announced that it is examining "data and further evidence" regarding the F1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, focusing on concerns related to McLaren's rear wing.

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

This follows a few weeks after the governing body of Formula 1 exonerated McLaren of any violations related to flexible wings, following an investigation into their front wing.

Focus has now shifted to a supposed gimmick involving McLaren's rear wing, which appears to have added a new dimension to the ongoing flexi-wing controversy.

Footage from the rear-facing camera on Piastri’s McLaren seemed to capture the upper section of the rear wing bending when moving at high speed on the straights in Baku.

A statement from the FIA indicated: "The FIA is keeping a close eye on the flexibility of the bodywork of all vehicles and has the authority to ask teams to make changes at any time throughout the season."

In the event that a team meets all deflection test requirements and follows all rules and technical guidelines, it is considered to be fully compliant, and no additional measures will be pursued.

"The FIA is analyzing the information and any new evidence from the Baku Grand Prix and is contemplating potential preventive actions for future events."

"This is a routine procedure when examining technical compliance, and the FIA has the power to implement rule changes during the season if necessary."

A representative from McLaren informed BBC Sport that their vehicle met all testing requirements and adhered to regulations.

Leclerc highlighted McLaren's superior straight-line speed after his failed attempt to overtake Piastri and regain the lead.

The racer from Monaco admitted that they misjudged how fast their competitor would be on the straight sections, as the competitor used a lower downforce setup, making them too quick to try passing.

Oscar Piastri's victory in Baku marked McLaren's fourth triumph of the 2024 season, propelling them ahead of Red Bull in the constructors' championship standings. With this win, McLaren now leads by 20 points as they prepare for the upcoming Singapore Grand Prix this weekend.

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