Honda join debate on Ferrari's flexing wings

By Phil Huff
April 6 2006

Honda Racing F1's boss Nick Fry has joined the debate on Ferrari's controversial wings, telling reporters in Malaysia that the FIA are to clarify the rules in time for the Australian Grand Prix.

"The FIA will clarify the situation before we get to Melbourne," said Fry. "That's what we need. All we asked Charlie Whiting is which interpretation is correct. It would be unfortunate if Ferrari's interpretation is said to be right because all the other teams will have to do similar things."

However, it's understood that at least three teams, McLaren included, are running similar flexi-wing solutions. The issue revolves around aerodynamic planes that appear to flatten at speed, allowing air to pass over less restricted than normal, resulting in less drag and more speed.

In Ferrari's case, this is clear from TV images, with the top plane of the front wing separating from the nosecone at high speed, effectively lowering the wing and allowing cleaner airflow.

According to Nick Fry, the matter is not new, with the teams being aware of the flex for around six months. Given that, and Ferrari's podium finish at the season opener in Bahrain, it's difficult to understand why there's been no protests if the teams are so clear that it's a breach of the rules.

We wonder if it's because the people complaining are also pulling the same trick?