– The FIA is currently taking a closer look at the so-called Macarena wings at Ferrari and Red Bull. Depending on the results of the world motorsport governing body, this concept could, at least theoretically, be banned for the upcoming season. A scenario that former McLaren driver David Coulthard is not necessarily comfortable with.
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“Innovations that excite us and encourage discussion are part of the fun of Formula 1,” he said in the “Up To Speed” podcast. “They have set [Formula 1] apart from other championships where there is less scope for such solutions.”
The 13-time Grand Prix winner cites an old acquaintance as a prime example: Adrian Newey. “[He] always said that he doesn’t necessarily read the regulations to understand what they say, but to see what they don’t say. And it’s precisely in these areas that he then tries to design. Hopefully, we won’t lose that completely.”
On the other hand, Coulthard emphasizes that safety concerns will always play a central role. The rear wing’s locking mechanism caused a stir at Red Bull due to two departures. Max Verstappen struggled with such problems in both Austria and Great Britain. Consequently, the four-time world champion went off track twice and was anything but thrilled.
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“But at the same time, if something is largely developed by all teams, and is possibly a bit more complicated, especially in such a crucial area as aerodynamics, then in my opinion, the FIA has the opportunity, due to safety, to simplify the regulations and clarify that you can only open the flap and not turn the entire flap upside down.”
“I think,” Coulthard said, “on that basis, it makes sense. But to keep banning everything that’s different would be a real shame.”
Innovations are often banned in Formula 1. While some ideas were already laid to rest during a season, for other concepts, the predicted end only came in the following season.
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