F1 | Whiting rejects Ferrari's mirrors: "Interpretation of the regulation not accepted by the stewards"

When asked about the latest technical solution presented by Ferrari in Barcelona, ​​namely the gull-wing mirrors, Charlie Whiting underlined how the FIA ​​did not accept the explanations inherent to the aerodynamic appendages positioned above the mirror.

Ferrari, we remember, justified the two wings as useful supports for reducing vibrations during the motion of the car. The Federation, however, has chosen not to accept this clarification, highlighting how the two supports are to be considered as real aerodynamic appendages useful for modifying the air flows towards the rear.

In short, they perform an aerodynamic task and the regulation, precisely in this sense, leaves no room for other interpretations. Despite the provisional approval given by the commissioners in Spain, Whiting confirmed that Ferrari was invited to modify the component in view of the Monaco Grand Prix.

Here is Charlie Whiting's explanation: “It's a loose interpretation of the word 'montage,' because that's how they become legal. The interpretation depends on whether or not we think this is an installation issue. And we explained that we don't think so."

“Ferrari thinks they contribute to the rigidity of the mirror, but I doubt they would be there if it wasn't an aerodynamic advantage, even if it doesn't seem that high at the moment”, he added. “A few weeks ago we sent out a technical directive in response to a series of questions from other teams about whether installing mirrors on Halo was an acceptable principle for us.”

“We said yes and provided some guidelines. One concerns their installation in the car. It's just a matter of interpretation and the motivation they gave us a few days ago in Spain is not something we are satisfied with."he concluded.