McLaren Absent as Teams Clash Over New F1 Rule

McLaren did not report any front wing modifications to the FIA ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix, even as a new technical directive regarding flexi-wings changed Formula 1’s front wing rules. The team decided to run without visible updates, setting itself apart from rivals responding to the new regulation that took effect this weekend. (more on the flexi-wing rule changes)

Mercedes followed a similar approach but had already made its necessary changes at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, meeting requirements ahead of schedule.

Red Bull and Ferrari both disclosed front wing upgrades in the official documentation for the Spanish round. Red Bull revised the geometry of both the first and second elements of its front wing, focusing on gaining extra stiffness while limiting any increase in weight.

The team’s changes are intended to comply with the updated 2025 F1 Technical Regulations and to maintain targeted load characteristics. Ferrari reported updates to their endplates and outboard tip rolls of the wing, along with tweaks to how the wing shares forces from front to back and along the span.

Several other teams also reacted to the new ruling. Aston Martin, Haas, Racing Bulls, and Williams all listed front wing adaptations with the FIA, confirming their compliance with the flexi-wing directive known as TD018H.

Stake, the F1 team formerly Alfa Romeo, also amended its front wing. However, their change, which involves the transition between the mainplane and the endplate, did not reference the new regulation specifically.

The Spanish Grand Prix at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya brought more than just front wing changes. Ferrari brought a special rear wing for this race, optimizing an existing model for improved airflow and efficiency in high-downforce setups.

This version had been seen before at Imola, with small refinements added for Spain. Mercedes debuted a circuit-specific rear wing as well, updating the mainplane and the flap elements to boost downforce and reduce drag where possible. (details on McLaren and Hamilton in Monaco)

Additionally, Mercedes revised its floor fences to help with airflow, a move shared by Alpine, which also changed the shape of its floor fence.

Racing Bulls introduced a new nose for their car, raising the lower surface while lowering the tip, a response connected to their updated front wing. The change modifies the connection between the tips and endplates on the VCARB 02 car.

Williams presented two more changes: a new geometry for the rear brake ducts and an optional cooling louvre panel to manage track temperatures.

Meanwhile, Stake made further updates to its floor and engine cover, intending to improve local aerodynamic load and boost air movement around the car.

Teams are expected to shift focus to 2026 regulations soon, making the Spanish race one of the last big upgrade opportunities for this season. (background on Sainz’s Monaco experience)

As the teams adjust to new F1 rules, the effectiveness of these technical changes will be watched closely throughout the Spanish Grand Prix weekend and beyond. The Barcelona round could be vital for understanding how these upgrades perform before teams switch development to future regulations.

John Martinez

John Martinez delivers real-time NASCAR Cup Series and Truck Series news, from live race updates to pit-lane strategy analysis. A graduate of the University of Northwestern Ohio’s Motorsports Technology program, he breaks down rule changes, driver tactics, and championship points with crystal-clear reporting.