FIA Confirms Red Bull’s Front Wing Update for Bahrain GP Amid McLaren Flex Wing Controversy
The FIA has officially confirmed that Red Bull Racing will debut a modified front wing at the Bahrain Grand Prix, following the recent controversy surrounding wing flexibility and aerodynamic design in the 2025 Formula 1 season.
According to the FIA’s latest ‘car presentation submissions’ document, Red Bull has introduced a new front wing feature described as a “longer chord flap.” This modification is designed to enhance the aerodynamic performance of their RB21 chassis, which has faced challenges with consistency and balance in the early part of the season.
Despite these struggles, Max Verstappen has managed to keep himself firmly in the title fight. His victory at the Japanese Grand Prix last weekend helped him climb to second place in the Drivers’ Championship standings, just one point behind current leader Lando Norris. It was a vital win for both Verstappen and Red Bull, proving that even amid ongoing development and performance issues, the reigning champion can still deliver when it matters most.
The FIA document offered some technical insight into Red Bull’s latest update. By extending the chord of the wing flap, the team increases the potential aerodynamic load the front wing can generate. This, in turn, provides more flexibility in achieving the ideal aerodynamic balance, especially when paired with various rear wing setups. The intention is to improve the car’s overall performance envelope, whether for immediate gains or future-proofing against upcoming regulatory changes.
However, the timing of this front wing update has drawn attention due to a broader debate happening in the paddock—specifically, the growing controversy around flexible wing designs.
McLaren has found itself at the center of this debate after a video clip showing their rear wing appearing highly flexible went viral on social media earlier this week. The video, which was reposted by Max Verstappen’s father, Jos Verstappen, has raised fresh concerns about how far teams are pushing the limits of aerodynamic component flexibility.
This issue is not entirely new. Teams have been testing the boundaries of what’s allowed under FIA regulations for years, with flexing wings often used to reduce drag on straights while maintaining downforce in corners. However, the FIA announced ahead of the 2025 season that it would implement stricter measures on wing flexing starting from the Spanish Grand Prix.
These incoming changes mean that all teams must ensure their front and rear wings comply with a more rigid set of tests to prevent excessive movement. The decision is seen by many as a direct response to McLaren’s 2024 rear wing, which offered significant aerodynamic efficiency and became the blueprint that several rivals attempted to emulate.
It remains unclear whether Red Bull’s newly introduced front wing is a proactive move to comply with the upcoming regulations or simply a performance upgrade aimed at gaining an edge in the short term. Either way, the introduction of the longer chord flap shows that Red Bull is actively developing solutions to stay competitive in an increasingly tight championship battle.
When asked about the viral McLaren wing video and the apparent flexibility seen in the footage, Max Verstappen was diplomatic in his response. “I don’t make the rules and I’m also not the one enforcing them,” he said. “What I see, probably a lot of people see, but that’s it.”
Verstappen was also asked whether he believed all teams were on a level playing field in terms of compliance with flex regulations. “Well, if it’s allowed, then yes, right?” he responded. “I mean, everyone is always naturally pushing the boundaries, and it’s up to the FIA to decide what is allowed.”
His comments highlight the delicate balance that teams must strike between innovation and regulation in Formula 1. While Red Bull, McLaren, and others work to gain every possible advantage on track, it is ultimately up to the FIA to interpret the rules and ensure fair play.
As the Bahrain GP approaches, all eyes will be on Red Bull’s new front wing and McLaren’s rear wing behavior. The outcome of this weekend’s race may not only affect the standings but could also influence how the FIA enforces its aerodynamic regulations going forward.
With just one point separating Norris and Verstappen, and Red Bull ramping up development, the championship battle is heating up both on and off the track.
