Toto Wolff Warns Ferrari Stands to Gain Most From Upcoming F1 Flexi-Wing Rule Changes
May 29, 2025 — Monaco
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has raised eyebrows in the Formula 1 paddock with a pointed claim that Ferrari is poised to benefit the most from the FIA’s upcoming crackdown on flexible wings — a topic that has reignited debate over the fairness and clarity of aerodynamic regulations in the sport.
Speaking ahead of this weekend’s Monaco Grand Prix, Wolff addressed the impending technical directive (TD), which is set to be enforced from the Canadian Grand Prix onwards. The new rule aims to tighten tolerances and inspection procedures surrounding wing flexibility — a long-standing gray area in F1 where teams have exploited the limits of material elasticity and aero design to reduce drag and increase top speed on straights without compromising downforce in corners.
“Ferrari Will Benefit Most”
Wolff didn’t mince words during a media session, stating:
> “From what we’ve analyzed and seen in the data — both on-track and through our simulations — the changes are likely to affect the balance of power in the midfield. But Ferrari? They stand to gain the most. Their current package is already quite efficient, and if this directive curtails some of their rivals’ flexi-wing advantages, the Scuderia could find themselves much closer to Red Bull, maybe even ahead on certain circuits.”
Though Wolff stopped short of naming specific teams that might lose ground, insiders believe Red Bull and McLaren could be among the hardest hit, having been rumored to operate at the upper edge of allowable flex under the current guidelines. Ferrari, by contrast, has reportedly stuck closer to the letter of the regulations, favoring a more conservative approach that could now pay dividends.
What the Rule Change Entails
The FIA’s directive, expected to be formally introduced in Montreal, will impose stricter deflection tests on both front and rear wings. These tests will now include multiple-axis pressure simulations and higher loads in various directions — aimed at catching designs that pass static tests but move significantly under race conditions.
Teams have long danced around the literal requirements of the rules by designing components that flex only when certain loads are applied — for example, at high speeds on a straight. This has allowed some outfits to enjoy the best of both worlds: high downforce in corners, but a flatter, drag-reduced profile at top speeds.
The FIA has periodically updated its enforcement of these areas — most notably with rear-wing tests in 2021 — but the upcoming changes are reportedly broader and more stringent, including increased use of in-race telemetry analysis and high-speed camera footage to detect unlawful flex.
Ferrari’s Quiet Confidence
At Ferrari, the response to Wolff’s comments has been diplomatic but tinged with quiet confidence. Team principal Frédéric Vasseur responded:
“We design our cars within the rules, and any change that brings more clarity is welcome
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