The 2025 Formula One season started out unexpectedly as wet weather quickly added complexity and suspense into races. Qualifying rounds saw Tsunoda, Albon, Gasly and Sainz challenge their usual front runners; setting off an unpredictable beginning.
Even under difficult weather conditions, teams such as Williams and VCARB displayed outstanding speeds that upped the stakes heading into China Grand Prix. Notably, this event coincided with a new technical directive which is anticipated to have significant bearing on team performances.
Significance of the New FIA Directive
The FIA’s move to introduce new regulations aimed at curtailing the ‘Mini-DRS’ effect marks a critical moment for the sport. McLaren emerged as pioneers in this controversial area, exploiting aerodynamic benefits at Baku the previous year. The governing body’s decision to implement stricter tests and rules during the winter was a response to concerns over teams bypassing static wing-flexing tests to achieve aerodynamic advantages on the track.
An unexpected early implementation of new monitoring measures at the Australian GP last weekend indicates the FIA’s urgency in addressing these concerns. The introduction of rear wing movement cameras and immediate new compliance measures at the Chinese GP showcase the sport’s commitment to fairness and competition integrity.
With further restrictions slated for the third round in Japan, the FIA aims to eradicate this grey area entirely in 2025, prompting speculation about which teams might be most affected by the clampdown.
Teams in Focus: McLaren and Ferrari
Analysis suggests that McLaren and Ferrari, who have been at the forefront of the flexi-wing development race, could be under particular scrutiny in Shanghai. Despite both teams downplaying the impact of the new rules during the off-season, pre-season testing hinted at ongoing advantages from ‘Mini-DRS’ for these teams.
Red Bull’s technical director raised suspicions about their rivals’ continued exploitation of flexible wings, adding fuel to the debate over which teams might suffer most under the new regulations. With Ferrari, McLaren, Alpine, and Haas among those speculated to have gained from flexi-wings in Australia, the true extent of any advantage remains uncertain until detailed data emerges.
However, with teams being required to adapt immediately to comply with new rules in accordance with flexible aerodynamics will become obsolete quickly and any competitive edge gained through flexible aerodynamics will quickly fade. Even minor lap times losses could significantly change competitive balance – particularly as teams now look towards 2026 regulations as potential solutions.
As F1 adjusts to these new conditions, early season 2025 races could provide clues as to how teams manage resources and strategies in anticipation of challenges ahead.