Teams to Test New Wings in Melbourne Practice

Formula 1 teams are still quite unclear on the use of the adjustable rear wing this season, and it appears that the International Automobile Federation (FIA) has already scheduled a meeting with the team representatives prior to the season opening Australian Grand Prix in order to discuss the matter further.

According to FIA race director Charlie Whiting, there is a good possibility of using the first practice session of the Aussie race on Friday to test the behavior of the adjustable rear wing, as well as figure out the exact timing loop and wing-activation section on the Melbourne circuit's main straight.

The FIA rulebook states that the wing could be activated only if the car behind is less than one second close to the one in front when exiting the corner leading to the straight line, and also within a 600-metre section before the braking zone. Rules can be adjusted however from race to race, depending on the lengths of a circuit's straight line, and Whiting admitted that the first test on the new wings could take place before Friday's P1.

“We will discuss the possibility of using part of a free practice session in Melbourne with the teams on the day before first practice,” said the FIA official.

Furthermore, he fended off allegations that the new rules will throw fans into confusion, saying that the: “Operation of the wing ... is simple, there will be marks on the track to show the area where proximity is being detected and a line across the track at the point where the drivers whose system is armed may deploy it.”

“Furthermore, the television broadcasters will be sent a signal each time a system is armed and this will be displayed to the viewers.”

In addition, Whiting insisted that the rules on wing use will be clear enough for everyone before the beginning of each race, and infringement of those rules will lead to “heavy penalties.”