New tests will stop ‘flexi-floors’

Formula 1's Technical Working Group is due to meet at the Malaysian Grand Prix to discuss increasing the load test on the underbody of the cars to put an end to growing rumours that one or more teams are running floors that deform at high speed, thereby narrowing the gap to the road surface and increasing downforce.

More stringent tests were introduced last year to prevent teams from exploiting the deformability of a car's front and rear wings. Flexible front wings could potentially increase downforce at high speeds, while a flexible rear wing and its mounting could reduce angle of attack and therefore drag.

The Malaysian meeting could also be used as a forum to discuss Formula 1 electronics, following continuing speculation that some teams may be running illegal forms of traction control.

Williams technical director Patrick Head said: "If someone gets a gold medal at the Olympics, and there is a sniff of something not quite right, then that devalues their achievement. I don't think that is in the interests of the sport."