Lewis Hamilton blasts F1’s latest change: ‘Total waste of money!’

Lewis Hamilton has voiced strong criticism about the latest change to Formula 1’s technical rules, calling the new FIA front wing regulation “a waste of money.” The seven-time world champion made his feelings clear after the new load tests for front wings were introduced at the Spanish Grand Prix, following a delayed rollout compared to the already implemented rear wing tests.

These new rules came after some teams raised concerns last season over flexible wings, leading to the FIA increasing scrutiny and toughening regulations around aerodynamic parts. (flexible wings)

Lewis Hamilton has voiced strong criticism about the latest change to Formula 1’s technical rules, calling the new FIA front wing regulation “a waste of money.” The seven-time world champion made his feelings clear after the new load tests for front wings were introduced at the Spanish Grand Prix, following a delayed rollout compared to the already implemented rear wing tests.

Hamilton explained he noticed very little effect from the new specification after trying the adjusted front wing during practice and qualifying at Barcelona’s Circuit de Catalunya. He reported that his car’s handling was less smooth but said the update did not lead to meaningful differences in wing flexibility.

“It’s just wasted everyone’s money,” Hamilton said. “It’s literally changed nothing.” He continued, saying that all teams’ wings still bend, just partially less than before, but all teams also spent resources designing new wings to meet the rule.

Hamilton even suggested that the money should have gone to charity instead, showing his clear frustration with the process.

Despite his annoyance over the regulation change, Hamilton managed a strong performance in qualifying. He will start fifth on the grid for the Spanish Grand Prix. (strong performance in qualifying)

That is only his second time this season out-qualifying his Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc, the previous time coming at the Chinese Grand Prix. In Friday’s second practice, Hamilton called his car “not driveable” over team radio, highlighting balance and downforce issues.

However, Hamilton and his engineers worked overnight, improving the car’s setup. They recovered nearly half a second in pace, putting Hamilton just under a quarter of a second from McLaren’s Lando Norris, who starts second.

Hamilton addressed rumors of frustration after Friday, saying he simply felt confused by the car’s sudden lack of downforce and big shifts in balance, especially since the team made no major changes at the time.

Once the team found the problem, they fixed it and found more speed in the car for qualifying. Still, Hamilton remains realistic, admitting that Ferrari does not yet have the pace to compete with McLaren or Red Bull on outright speed.

Elsewhere in the paddock, Max Verstappen is aiming for a close battle with Norris after a tight qualifying session. Oscar Piastri captured pole with an impressive performance, while Norris and Verstappen appeared closely matched in pace.

Meanwhile, Lando Norris described his result as disappointing following defeat to his McLaren teammate but promised an “interesting” strategy for the race.

As the Spanish Grand Prix approaches, every team is chasing performance and better results. Lewis Hamilton continues to press for improvements both on track and in how the sport makes technical decisions.

He will line up fifth, hoping to turn criticism into points and close the gap in the standings. With changing regulations and fierce competition, all eyes will be on how teams and drivers adapt as the season continues. (McLaren teammate)

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.