However, according to McLaren managing director Jonathan Neale, the team is yet to make a final decision on this topic. Until the Italian GP weekend, McLaren will evaluate the ups and downs of fitting the F-duct on the MP4-25 and will act on it based on development data.
“I read that (not using F-duct) on Monday morning and there were a few of us raising our eyebrows. We have the option to either run it or not. I think at the moment we are just looking at all the options. It is incorrect to assume we can make any decisions (yet) as to whether we are (going to use the F-duct at Monza) or not,” Neale was quoted as saying in a Vodafone teleconference on Wednesday.
While still unclear for Monza, the F-duct will continue to be a part of the car at Spa-Francorchamps this weekend, another circuit with a high-speed configuration. The device is likely to boost the MP4-25's speed in straight line, adding an extra 6 to 10 mph due to an improved airflow towards the rear of the car.
The novelty around the Belgian Grand Prix this weekend regards the new wing flexibility tests due to be implemented by the FIA during the scrutineering process at Spa. The move was adopted by the FIA due to the constant complaints from the F1 teams regarding the huge flexibility shown by the front wings of the Red Bull RB6 and Ferrari F10 in recent races.
Consequently, the tests will consist of 100kg weights being applied to the front wings' endplates – until now, only 50kg were applied – with the bending of the wings being allowed for a maximum of 20mm (10mm until now).
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