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Rear wing worth half a second - Michael

ESPNF1 Staff
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Sam Michael says the FW33 'has been a good car from the beginning' © Sutton Images
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Williams technical director Sam Michael says that the adjustable rear wing is worth half a second per lap in qualifying.

There have been reservations about whether or not the rear wing should be allowed to be activated during qualifying, with Red Bull against the idea. But Michael says the system will have a big impact on lap time.

"In qualifying it will be worth about half a second per lap, Michael said. "During the race, I think it should achieve what it is supposed to, but it may take two or three races for the FIA to fine tune the usage of the system. It should not get to the point where a driver can just drive past another car with ease, but rather it should be a device that gives just a bit more to an already ambitious overtaking attempt."

With new regulations in place for 2011, including the reintroduction of KERS and new Pirelli tyres, the teams have had a lot to work on during testing. Michael also says that there is now an even greater importance to developing the car throughout the season.

"The teams are closer now as a result of the new regulations, which is what they were designed to do. There are a lot of cars within half a second of each other which means if you bring two or three tenths, either from an aero upgrade or some other mechanical component, it could make a significant difference this year."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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