The Singapore Grand Prix 2024 has been filled with drama, but none is as contentious as what McLaren did with their rear wings. During the practice session, McLaren’s car received close attention from rivals, and as per the request of the FIA, they changed the rear wing before the race. It was following footage from Oscar Piastri’s car showing the flexing of the rear wing at sections of high speed that led to questions about the legal status of the component.
McLaren’s Rear Wing Controversy: The Facts Revealed
The rear wing concept, which was introduced by McLaren, stirred controversy in the F1 paddock. The flexing of the wing, especially during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, was noticed by rival teams, notably Red Bull, prompting the FIA to act. McLaren was the first to comment on the lawfulness of their design, stating that the car was legal as it had passed all the tests. However, before the Singapore GP, the FIA demanded some changes, which added mystery to the team’s performance.
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How McLaren Engineered the Now Infamous Rear Wing
McLaren started working on the rear wing before the Singapore GP as the engineers tried to find ways to maximize the car’s top speed on the straight without going against the F1 rules on aerodynamics. Similar to the Drag Reduction System used before, McLaren’s designers had to create a flexible wing that changed very slightly at high speeds to allow for increased top speed.
The ability of the wing to flex was engineered within the constraints of the maximum deformation allowable by the FIA. Designers spent several months subjecting the structure to wind tunnel tests, trying and testing how much flexibility was possible to achieve while gaining maximum performance. This gave them an upper hand, especially on circuits with long straightaways. While other teams soon became skeptical, McLaren continued to defend the rear wing, saying that it had not been protested in any FIA tests up to the Singapore GP.
Analysis of Key Components of McLaren’s Rear Wing
This rear wing design offered a greater performance advantage in the high-speed straights. It significantly minimized drag to deliver higher top speeds. However, some claimed that it served as a ‘mini-DRS’ system, which led to the FIA’s intervention. Here’s what made it unique:
- Flexing Wing: The rear wing would deform slightly so that between the main plane and the flap, there was a space similar to that created when the DRS is operated.
- Increased Top Speed: By decreasing drag, McLaren could gain more top speed on straight lines, which would be valuable in Baku and Singapore.
- Return to Form: The wing folded back when the driver pressed the brakes to provide maximum downforce, especially when cornering.
The Reaction of Teams to the Change of Wing by McLaren
Some changes made to McLaren’s rear wing did not go unnoticed. Several teams, including Ferrari and Red Bull, raised their voices, arguing that the technology used by McLaren was illegal by F1 standards. But for McLaren, the alterations were simple, as they were part of the team’s high-risk, high-reward endeavor.
Here’s a list of key reactions from rival teams:
- Red Bull: That same week, Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner questioned why the FIA allowed wing through previous tests, but he was pleased with the change.
- Ferrari: Leclerc himself described it as “controversial,” and Ferrari’s technical director said it gave McLaren an advantage on circuits where straights were long.
- Mercedes: Toto Wolff, who was less vocal, said that McLaren’s ingenuity had stirred the needle and pointed to the need for clear regulations.
The controversy generated by the rear wing highlighted some of the concerns regarding the extent of innovation that exists in Formula 1 and its relation to the rules.
Post-Singapore: What’s Next for McLaren?
When the final checkered flag came down on the Singapore Grand Prix, McLaren was in a rather peculiar situation. Though the modifications made to their rear wing had a small impact on their top speed during the race, the team was able to hold its own throughout the race. Both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri were able to deliver good performances, even though there were quite a few changes made at the last minute.
Loyal fans who were able to follow the drama could use the MelBet app to get the latest analysis tips and enjoy an impressive choice of betting opportunities. The controversy over McLaren gave fans of the sport another thing to look forward to, whether or not the changes affect the overall strategy of the team.
Conclusion: The Singapore GP 2024
The Singapore GP race was unforgettable, not only because of the breathtaking overtakes but also because of the McLaren rear wing scandal. The FIA’s actions and the changes made by McLaren as a result are an example of how close teams are to the limit in Formula 1.
The knowledge gained in Singapore will likely help determine future designs and strategies in the teams’ operational field. Despite the setback, McLaren did not give up but continued to explore new opportunities while staying within the law, thus establishing itself as a worthy F1 competitor.
