In the high-stakes world of Formula 1, the upcoming mid-season alterations to the sport’s regulations could reshape the competitive landscape at the front of the grid, according to Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur.
The FIA, the governing body of motorsport, announced in January via a technical directive that more rigorous flexibility tests for front wings would be implemented starting from the Spanish Grand Prix. Scheduled from May 30 to June 1, this event marks the ninth round of the season. The new rules will reduce the permitted level of flex from 15mm of movement to 10mm. The delay in implementation was intentional, aiming to give teams ample time to meet the requirements.
Ferrari has endured a lackluster start, trailing McLaren by 152 points after six races. While many teams plan upgrades for this weekend’s Emilia Romagna GP, team principal Vasseur believes Barcelona’s rule changes will be more impactful.
In a Sky Sports F1 interview, Vasseur noted that after four years of stable regulations, major upgrades are difficult; teams now focus on fine-tuning. He highlighted the new front wing rules in Spain as a potential “gamechanger” that could disrupt the championship order, though not necessarily shift overall standings.
McLaren’s current dominance. Red Bull’s Horner also anticipates significant shifts. Meanwhile, Piastri and Norris remain confident the changes won’t affect their leading team.
Ferrari’s signing of Hamilton from Mercedes generated high hopes at the season’s start. Yet his debut in a Ferrari has disappointed thus far, with Hamilton seventh and Leclerc fifth in the standings, just 12 points apart.
Despite a Sprint win in China and third place in Miami, Hamilton has struggled, especially in qualifying and full races, more so than Leclerc.
Vasseur blamed Hamilton’s difficulties on the car’s underperformance. “The car isn’t meeting our expectations,” he said. “Compared to last year, we’re in a tough spot, making it harder for a new driver to adapt after 12 years at Mercedes.” He remained optimistic, noting their positive collaboration was improving mutual understanding, both personally and technically.
Hamilton made headlines in Miami when he expressed frustration over team radio regarding the strategy calls from the Ferrari pit wall. But Vasseur isn’t fazed by such incidents. He insisted, “I’m never upset as long as we can have a productive discussion afterward. We must remember that drivers are speaking on the radio while racing at 330 kph in Miami, between the walls, under intense pressure and in front of millions of viewers. They’re bound to be unhappy at times with the result, strategy, or car balance. For me, the most important thing is the content of our debriefs. “
The F1 European season kicks off this weekend with the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, live on Sky Sports F1. Stream Sky Sports with NOW – no contract, cancel anytime.