What Are Flexi Wings And Why Are They The Talk Of Formula 1?

Let’s face it; Formula 1 is always coming up with ways to make the cars and the drivers better than ever before. From breaking speeds that have never been seen before to making sure their stays in the pot stops are faster than ever, there are so many ways to keep things moving.

In fact, plenty have been left wondering if there is any way to improve Formula 1 cars as they have done so much with the sport throughout the years. Now, it seems as though the sport is back at it again with a brand new invention. So, what are flexi wings, and why are they the talk of Formula 1?

What are flexi wings?

Let’s get to the root of the issue: what are flexi wings? They are a type of side mirror used on Formula 1 cars that bend in the wind, meaning they make the vehicle more aerodynamic. The rules state that all mirrors must be “rigidly secured” to the car and can’t aid performance in any way. They never used to be an issue within the sport, but flexi wings have since been the talk of Formula 1.

What’s the problem with flexi wings?

Several teams have been accused of using flexi wings in the last few races, even though every car and all the parts are rigorously tested before they are allowed to head around the track. So what’s the problem? Some say that it could give teams an unfair advantage if their cars are more aerodynamically equipped than others. Some have even gone as far as to say that teams have taken advantage of the unclear rules to give themselves a better head start. 

Did Red Bull use flexi wings?

Lewis Hamilton has been one of the many to talk about the use of flexi wings in Formula 1, and it seems the driver is less than impressed with the addition. In fact, he went as far as to accuse Red Bull of using the additions on their latest cars, something that allegedly gave the drivers an extra boost on the straight. However, Red Bull’s boss is adamant that the team is playing by the rules, and none of the cars have been altered.

How has the FIA reacted?

So what does the FIA have to say about flexi wings being used in Formula 1? They wanted to get ahead of the problem when it came to the Monaco Grand Prix, so they decided to send all the vehicles for extra testing before the race. The FIA also stated there would be a host of tougher tests to ensure that no flexi wings - or any other banned addition to a car - made it to the track. 

What does the future of flexi wings mean for Formula 1?

All we know so far is that flexi wings mean there will suddenly be a lot more testing than ever before when it comes to every race in Formula 1. After all, they could give a driver a huge advantage, especially on the straight, meaning the sport needs to be on the lookout for anyone getting ahead with unfair additions.

It turns out there is a good reason that flexi wings are the talk of Formula 1, but they might not be such a big problem for much longer. In fact, it looks as though they might have run their course already.