Having studied video footage of the VF17 during FP1, the FIA decided that the T-wing was moving around far too much while the car was navigating Albert Park.

The appendage was thus considered a safety risk and it was removed, as per the FIA's request, in time for FP2.

Romain Grosjean, Haas F1 Team VF-17 Photo by: LAT Images

The warning signs had been there during the Barcelona pre-season test when it was noted that the American team's T-wing had a tendency to wag the shark fin under cornering load.

Having been asked to remove it on Friday in Australia, Haas was eager to reinstate the device as quickly as possible, knowing the aerodynamic gains that it brings.

Haas F1 Team VF-17, shark fin Photo by: Giorgio Piola

As such, the team hastily reinforced the shark fin with carbon fibre (see blue arrows for shut lines), limiting the flex that can be imparted on it by the T-wing as the two devices work together to straighten the car.