The ‘F-Duct’ system is still making headlines

On March 30th, casinoenligne.uk.com reported Sauber team’s decision, being the first to reproduce the system created by McLaren. Today, Adrian Newey shares his concerns regarding the use of the ‘F-Duct’ in Formula 1.

In the face of this technological advantage, there is strong pressure to introduce this concept as soon as possible. Newey believes that the changes in the dynamic downforce of the cars generated by the ‘F-Duct’ can be a danger. He states to the Gazzetta dello Sport:

« The invention by McLaren is intelligent and opens up new avenues. However, I am concerned about the safety aspect. The system works by flattening the rear wing and shedding the load. Forcing a driver to make a sudden movement to change normal load conditions requires maximum safety. »

Despite his concerns, Newey is already working on creating an ‘F-Duct’ adapted to the Red Bull as the straight-line speed advantage is real. However, the team does not yet know when their own version will be ready.

As confirmed by the team director, Christian Horner: « It’s a difficult question…This system will be integrated, at some point, along with an upgrade. The guys are waiting for it…. But it’s a complex technological element, so it’s important to do things right. We will introduce it only when we are fully satisfied. »

Newey specifies: « Many cars, including ours, have been redesigned around the double diffuser. The pace of development is high and the speed at which you bring new innovations remains crucial… We have studied the ‘F-Duct’. We understand how it works, but making it work properly is really something else. We don’t know when we will be able to use it on track. »

The RBR technical director concludes: « The difficult part is that McLaren designed its chassis around this system, and the regulations prevent you from modifying your chassis. Any new system must be included in the existing structure. »

The speed of the McLarens in a straight line is obvious, and the competitors of the British team have understood that the ‘F-Duct’ is the technical advantage that increases top speed. Small appendages should ‘sprout’ quickly on the majority of the cars on the grid.

Only one question arises: Will all the teams be able to integrate this concept correctly to make the most of it?