25/03/2011
NEWS STORY
Mat Coch writes:
The FIA has moved to ease concerns teams held over the use of the moveable rear wings during inclement weather. Regulations didn't specify if the device could be used during wet conditions, prompting safety concerns among team managers.
In response to a meeting held with team managers on Thursday, Race Director Charlie Whiting issue a clarification shortly before the opening practice session.
The statement read: "I would like to confirm that for safety reasons the driver adjustable bodywork permitted by Article 3.18 of the Technical Regulations may not be operated in any practice session (including qualifying) if the car is fitted with intermediate or wet-weather tyres."
Drivers found in breach of the new rule will be reported to the stewards on a charge of Dangerous Construction (Article 2.3 of the Technical Regulations). If found guilty stewards have the right to exclude a car from the event.
Interestingly the clarification only specifies practice and qualifying, with no mention of it being prohibited during the race when cars typically run more closely together.