Jos Verstappen has strongly criticized the FIA for delaying a clampdown on flexible front wings in Formula 1 until the Spanish Grand Prix, arguing that rival teams-specifically McLaren-have already gained a significant advantage from the current regulations. After McLaren secured another 1-2 finish in Miami, Verstappen called it “so stupid” that the FIA did not enforce stricter front wing tests from the very start of the 2025 season. He argued that by waiting until round nine to implement these changes, teams like McLaren have been able to benefit from potentially more flexible wings for several races, creating an uneven playing field.
Red Bull has been suspicious of McLaren’s car throughout the season, questioning not just the flexibility of their wings but also their tyre management, with rumors circulating about McLaren using water to cool tyres during pit stops. This tension escalated after McLaren’s strong performances and Red Bull’s own investigations, including the use of thermal imaging to monitor McLaren’s tyres.
The FIA’s phased approach to introducing stricter front wing tests was explained as a way to allow teams time to adapt without discarding existing components unnecessarily. The governing body stated that these measures are intended to refine the enforcement of bodywork flexibility rules and ensure fair competition. However, Jos Verstappen remains unconvinced, saying, “Then they have benefited from it until then. I think that’s so stupid, but that’s part of it, I think”.
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner echoed concerns about the timing of the rule change, stating that the new tests from the Spanish Grand Prix would have a “significant effect” on all teams, though the extent would vary. He emphasized that this was not a minor adjustment and its impact on the competitive order remains to be seen.
