Mercedes reveal forward-thinking inspiration for major F1 upgrade

Mercedes has placed itself ahead of the curve by introducing an upgraded front wing for the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix that has impending F1 rule changes "in mind".

The Brackley-based squad's deputy technical director, Simone Resta, explained the reasoning behind the Imola update, but refused to explicitly state whether the team would need to alter it further.

A new FIA technical directive comes into force at the Spanish Grand Prix in two weeks as part of the clampdown on F1 flexi-wings.

Whilst amendments to the rules governing rear wings were adopted from the start of the season - and further tightened after - motorsport's governing body gave teams more time to address the front of their cars.

At the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, the allowed level of flex from the front wing will be reduced from the current 15mm to just 10mm.

"Of course, developing a new wing, we also kept in mind what will come in two races' time, so we'll try to be ready by then," Resta told media, including RacingNews365. "It's been thought through, having that in mind."

When asked whether the developed front wing will impact outright performance, the Italian remained coy, replying: "I'll tell you in time," before conceding Mercedes needed to establish whether it will positively contribute to the pace of the W16.

"We don't know," he said. "We are bringing it here because we think it's better than what we created [before], so now we have to prove it on track. But yeah, we're trying to introduce it here because we think it's better."

Pressed on whether the new front wing will pass the new threshold from the Spanish Grand Prix, Resta sidestepped the question, adding: "That's a question for the Barcelona weekend," before admitting the eight-time constructors' champions would have to "see" whether further changes will be required.

Not expected to be a 'game changer'

After starting the season in strong form, bolstered by four podium finishes for George Russell in the opening six rounds, Mercedes sits second in the constructors' standings behind McLaren.

However, Resta does not expect the rule changes to significantly move the needle of competitiveness across the grid.

"I suppose all the cars have got slightly different limitations in terms of their balance, and the need to tweak the balance between low speed and high speed," he said.

"It's going to be something measurable. I don't expect it [the regulations change] to be a game changer for anyone, but we'll see.

"I'm curious to see if people will be more or less hit by that. I don't expect it to be a game changer, but let's see. We'll see in two weeks' time."