Mercedes plans to use controversial wing in Mexico

The Mercedes team plans to use the front wings at the Mexican Grand Prix, which were presented for the first time in Austin last weekend. The front fenders have received some attention and questions about whether it even complies with the rules, with the upper element spacers being controversial.

The German team did not decide to use it in Texas, but according to technical director Mike Elliott, the use was not in the plan anyway, as the team only had one wing available.

Elliot said that Mercedes have not yet decided whether to use the wings in the final races of the season, as they should bring only minor improvements, but there is a possibility that it is an illegal solution.

"We could probably justify that the wing is legal, but the question is whether it is in our interest, because this part of the wing brings such small improvements that the risk of resentment among the judges is too great."

The rules prohibit spacers that would bring aerodynamic benefits, but Mercedes claims that their function is only to keep the distance between the elements of the wing. “In Austin, we only had one wing. If it was damaged during qualifying, it would have to be replaced before the race, and the car would therefore start the race from the garages," explained Andrew Shovlin.

"We had a lot of work in Austin, including the tire testing in the second practice, but in Mexico we will have more new parts available, so we will run with them on Friday and see if it works as expected, and then we plan to we also compete with him in the race."

Shovlin said this is the last major package of new parts for this year's car, but there are several smaller updates on the way. "This is the last major update, but not the last change to the race car."