McLaren hits out at 'unacceptable' F1 move

McLaren boss Andreas Seidl says the delay in a proposed crackdown on flexible rear wings is "not acceptable" as Ferrari confirms it is one of the teams to have exploited the loophole in the rules.

The FIA announced last week it would introduce a new test, designed to stop teams allowing their rear wing to flex at high speeds.

A rear wing that flexes on the straight will reduce the drag the car produces, increasing its top speed.

But the new test won't be effective until next month's French Grand Prix, meaning teams are free to continue with their existing wings in the meantime.

"We welcome the reaction from the FIA with the technical directive, which we are happy with for the basic content," Seidl said.

"Where we strongly disagree with is timing of the implementation because, from our point of view, there is no reason for many teams having still the advantage of doing things which, in our point of view, are clearly against the regulations."

The McLaren boss said it was unfair that those teams who were already enjoying an unfair advantage should be allowed to continue using a wing that will soon be illegal.

"They had the advantage already for several races which is something we're obviously not happy with. But now, allowing them to have further advantage for some more races, is clearly something we strongly disagree with, and where we are in conversation with FIA," Seidl said.

"We simply hope that FIA shows a very strong hand because from our my point of view it's simply not acceptable, because it puts the teams that comply with the regulations at a big disadvantage."

Seidl's comments come as Ferrari confirms it's one of the teams that has been taking advantage of the flexing rear wings.

"Yes, we are exploiting," said Ferrari boss Mattia Binotto.

"I think all the teams are exploiting somehow what's possible, and what we believe is right.

"We will need to slightly adapt. There are some redesigns which need to be prepared to comply fully to the technical directive."

Red Bull boss Christian Horner has estimated the change will cost in the region of $650,000, forcing his team to cut costs elsewhere to remain within the sport's budget cap.

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