Verstappen's first comment on FIA's flexible wing restriction: "No unexpected difference"

The new FIA technical directive, which comes into effect at the Barcelona track this weekend, requires front wings to undergo flex tests with stricter and longer-term checks.

This arrangement addresses the aerodynamic advantages that some teams have by keeping their bodies close to the ground at low speeds but being flexible at high speeds to reduce drag.

McLaren, thought to be one of these teams, did not give up the lead in the two practice sessions on Friday, with Lando Norris leading the first practice session and Oscar Piastri leading the second.

Max Verstappen finished second and third respectively.

The four-time world champion assessed Friday's practice in Barcelona: "If you look at the rankings, there doesn't seem to be much of a difference."

Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing

Photo: Sam Bagnall / Motorsport Images via Getty Images

"I didn't expect this kind of impact myself."

"This track is always a pleasure to drive. It was very hot today, especially tough on the tyres, but overall it was a good Friday.

"We've had worse Fridays. I was a little bit happier with the car today, but we're still not where we want to be. But it's still a more positive picture than the previous weeks.

"I want the car to give me a better feeling, but we've had Fridays where we were completely disconnected."