Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur has stated the upcoming front wing rule changes for the Spanish Grand Prix could be a “gamechanger”.
The FIA will impose stricter tests regarding how much the wings can flex from the round at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.
It has prompted some teams to make changes, while others assert they are unaffected by the new rules.
The F1 pecking order this year is being headed by McLaren, who is enjoying a strong start to the campaign with five grand prix wins in seven rounds.
However, Vasseur has suggested this could change when the rule change comes into effect later this month.
“We are at the point where it's difficult to do a big upgrade on the car because after four years with the same regulations we are more fighting for details,” Vasseur told Sky F1.
"The biggest one probably will be Spain because we have a clear change of regulation with the complete new front wing. This could change a little bit the picture of the championship. Let's wait for this.
"It could be a reset on the immediate picture, but not on the championship.
“The guy who will lead the championship in Spain will still lead the championship after Spain, but, in terms of pure performance, it could be a gamechanger.”
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Frederic Vasseur confident over Lewis Hamilton gains
Ferrari has endured a difficult start to the campaign, taking just a single podium result in the opening seven grands prix.
The Italian team entered the new season buoyed by the arrival of Lewis Hamilton, however the seven-time champion has struggled to get up to speed.
While it has not been the smoothest start for both parties, Vasseur is confident the pairing will continue to click as the season progresses.
"The car is not at the level that we were expecting,” he stated. “If you compare to last year, for example, it means that we are not in an ideal situation.
“And I think in this situation, it's even more difficult for a new driver to adapt to the car.
"I think if you are flying and winning every single weekend, it's much easier for them to adapt to the team.
"But I would say that as long as the collaboration is positive and constructive, even if it's not of use each weekend in terms of the result, I think we are improving understanding of each other, not just with me but the technical side.
“I think this is going in the right direction and I'm quite confident for the future."
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