FIA considers banning winglets

[davewilson]

F1's governing body could be considering banning aerodynamic devices like winglets in a bid to improve the opportunity for passing, we have learned.

Drivers have complained more vocally than ever in 2007 as teams affix ever more efficient downforce-inspiring additions to their cars' bodywork, following the introduction of harder tyres and tighter controls on engine development.

But the resulting disturbed air left in the cars' wake has made it even more difficult for drivers to get close enough to launch overtaking attempts.

According to whispers in F1 circles, the situation has led the FIA to contemplate banning auxiliary bodywork additions like winglets and flick-ups, after Max Mosley revealed recently that a working group on this issue is already in place.

Some experts are suggesting that Ferrari could already be trying to pre-empt the FIA's action, thereby maximising development time for future models, by 'cleaning up' the sidepods of the F2007 with its updated car for the upcoming Spanish grand prix.

Williams' race driver Alex Wurz, however, told motorline.cc that he did not think the current direction of aerodynamic innovation had led to the difficulty of passing, compared to junior categories like GP2.

"The main reason is that the best drivers in the world are in Formula One," he said, "and we make very few mistakes."