Another Mercedes controversy: Ferrari involves the FIA as the W17’s latest trick comes under scrutiny
Mercedes has unveiled another clever aerodynamic trick, but Ferrari is pushing back and has involved the FIA, which is now investigating the solution on the W17 ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix. Here’s the component at the center of the debate.
Following the controversy over the compression ratio used by Brackley’s Power Unit, a new debate has emerged around another Mercedes trick that provides multiple advantages on track. Ferrari is not standing idly by and has filed a formal complaint, prompting the FIA to examine the W17’s system. The video shows the component in question and its unusual behavior.
With the new 2026 regulations, many teams are searching for grey areas where they can operate at the limit of what’s allowed. Ferrari has already shown aggressive innovation in numerous aerodynamic solutions, including the FTM flap in front of the exhaust, a highly complex diffuser, and the rotating ‘Macarena’ rear wing that spins a full 270 degrees. Mercedes, however, has also found some clever solutions, like implementing a compression ratio above the 16:1 limit set by the FIA. Hot checks will be introduced from June 1, but the ADUO could genuinely help Ferrari reduce the Power Unit gap. Now, after the Chinese Grand Prix, another controversy has emerged for the Silver Arrows.
Mercedes front wing closes “gradually”
The flaps on both the front and rear wings must adhere to a closing time of approximately 400 milliseconds. Teams are required to respect precise parameters when using active aerodynamics. After the Chinese GP, images emerged showing an unusual behavior during the closure phase of the W17’s front wing. There appear to be timing inconsistencies. The curves analyzed in the video are turns 14 and 9 at the Shanghai circuit. Turn 14 involves heavy braking, while turn 9 requires significantly less braking force.
At turn 14, the flaps close using a slower, more gradual mechanism, with a closure time of around 800 milliseconds. This avoids the “shock” of an abrupt wing closure, allowing the car to maintain rear downforce under braking and then transfer it smoothly to the front axle.
ferrari has asked the fia for clarification on the mercedes front wing and now the fia is looking into it
[@Auto_Racer_it via @RosarioGiuliana] pic.twitter.com/MqxMJBDhoL— clara (@leclercsletters) March 24, 2026
At turn 9, a different type of movement is observed: the flaps close much faster, as additional front downforce is needed during corner entry. This behavior is strictly prohibited under the 2026 regulations. The “bi-phase” wing, as AutoRacer.it has dubbed it, was spotted by Ferrari. According to the Italian press, the team requested clarification from the FIA on Sunday evening, immediately after the Chinese GP. Nikolas Tombazis’ technical office will examine the component to determine its legality.
The system can bypass sensors, creating the illusion that the wing is fully closed while it remains slightly open. The FIA is expected to intervene to ensure a clearer method of judgment and standardize the solution. Other teams will either have to revise their hydraulic systems to comply, or Mercedes will have to modify the component. The advantages of this innovation are numerous, giving Mercedes a potential edge in both cornering performance and aerodynamic efficiency.
