FIA technical chief Nikolas Tombazis has left the door open to an even stricter clampdown on flexible front wings in 2025 if necessary.
This weekend in Barcelona, the governing body is implementing tougher new tests designed to prevent teams from exploiting aerodynamic loopholes, with McLaren's front wing solution coming under particular scrutiny.
"I don't think much will change," McLaren CEO Zak Brown said, downplaying the potential impact.
However, the three other top teams are bracing for significant consequences.
"This could change everything," said Red Bull team principal Christian Horner. "No one should underestimate what's coming to Formula 1.
"This could set the course for this world championship in a new direction."
Some in the paddock believe Ferrari may gain the most from the regulatory shift. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff noted: "In my opinion, Ferrari was the most conservative of the top teams when it came to flexible wings.
"I, too, am curious to see what this means in terms of the pecking order."
Ferrari team boss Fred Vasseur added: "Since the gaps between the teams are very small, these changes can certainly make a difference in terms of the balance of power."
Despite all the talk, Auto Motor und Sport journalist Michael Schmidt believes McLaren may have developed its flexi-wing technology to such a refined level that the new tests might not affect them at all.
Even so, Tombazis has confirmed that the FIA is prepared to go further if the situation demands it.
"Obviously it is fair for the FIA to add more flexibility tests or stiffness tests when it judges that a certain area may be getting exploited a bit too much," he said.
"But yes, we hope it will be the last time we'll do anything for this year."
As teams brace for potential changes in competitiveness, Barcelona may also serve as a pivotal moment in determining Max Verstappen's future at Red Bull.
"I think in Barcelona, we'll see where Red Bull's development really stands," Jos Verstappen told De Telegraaf.
"The race in Imola was very encouraging and if things go well in Barcelona too, I have great hopes. Not only for the rest of the year, but also for Max's future at Red Bull.
"He only wants to perform – he's not the type to just sit back for a year," Verstappen senior added. "Then you see a not-so-good Max."
