Ferrari says it never had any doubts over the legality of the front wing of its SF-23, having received a "crystal clear" opinion from the FIA on the element's compliance.
The Scuderia raised a few eyebrows when it rolled out its 2023 challenger that featured a front wing design concept that had been banned just months earlier by the FIA when it was introduced by Mercedes.
At last year's US Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas, Mercedes showcased the concept that featured five slot gap separators between the wing's two upper flaps.
While the initial purpose of the separators was to make sure the flaps stay together and have a consistent slot gap, their aerodynamic profile could also direct air flow to create outwash, thus defeating the purpose of F1's new front wing regulations which intended to keep outwash at a minimum.
Mercedes was informed by the governing body that the elements were in breach of a technical rule which stated that the "primary" function of the separators was to maintain structural integrity between the wing's flaps. The Brackley squad therefore never used the design at COTA.
Unbeknownst to many, that rule which compelled Mercedes to ditch its wing was removed from the regulations over the winter. And Ferrari took full advantage of the obscure change to exploit the concept on its 2023 car.
"When we launched the car with this kind of parts, we were sure to have a discussion with the FIA," explained Scuderia boss Fred Vasseur.
"For them, it was crystal clear that it was okay. The emotion of the other teams, I don't care."
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Vasseur said the reaction of Ferrari's rivals was just part of "the game in F1".
"Each year at test one you have this story about a winglet or this one [car part]. In one week's time, we will talk about something else," he added.
As usual during pre-season testing, teams' took a close look at the various designs and concepts that are being used up and down the field.
Alpine tech boss Matt Harman didn't exclude implementing Ferrari's concept on its A523.
"I think it's very concept specific," said the Briton. "We've had a look a few times at those. I think you may see them on our car, you may not. We will decide.
"The clarification of the regulation there is quite clear. It's clear that you can do them, and we will decide whether we do them or not. And maybe I'll let you know when they're coming."
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