F1, Sportrik Media - The FIA has issued its initial verdict on the legality of Ferrari’s radical rear-wing concept, first observed during pre-season testing in Bahrain. The innovative design was briefly deployed by Lewis Hamilton before technical issues curtailed his running.
During a short five-lap stint, Hamilton utilised a unique active aero configuration in which the rear-wing slot gap rotated through approximately 270 degrees when opened. Unlike the conventional DRS-style mechanism seen the previous day, this variant altered airflow characteristics more aggressively, effectively generating a lift profile comparable to an aircraft wing. The objective was to further reduce drag and enhance top-speed potential under the 2026 aerodynamic framework.
Ferrari reverted to a more traditional DRS-style configuration later in the session, but team principal Fred Vasseur did not dismiss the possibility of racing the more extreme solution should performance data justify its use in grands prix.
Responding to questions regarding the design, FIA Single-Seater Technical Director Nikolas Tombazis clarified that the governing body has intentionally allowed greater flexibility in drag-reduction systems under the current regulations.
“We have, generally speaking, encouraged solutions that reduce drag,” Tombazis explained.
“That’s why the DRS regulations of last year, which limited the amount of slot gap opening, have not been maintained this year. It is to give more freedom, and the Ferrari solution, we believe, is okay.”
The comments confirm that Ferrari’s interpretation falls within the boundaries of the 2026 technical regulations. With increased emphasis on energy efficiency and deployment management under the revised hybrid power unit rules, aerodynamic drag reduction plays a central strategic role, particularly on high-speed circuits.
From a competitive standpoint, the concept could provide a measurable advantage on tracks where straight-line efficiency and energy preservation are decisive. However, its effectiveness will depend on maintaining aerodynamic stability under braking and corner entry, where sudden load transitions can affect balance.
The FIA’s early approval provides Ferrari with regulatory certainty to continue developing the concept. Whether the radical rear wing becomes a consistent race-day feature will ultimately depend on correlation data, reliability integration, and its net performance gain across varying circuit profiles during the 2026 season.
Read Also
How to watch Formula 1 2026 worldwide, including official links to Sky Sports, DAZN, ESPN, beIN Sports and F1 TV streaming platforms.
Formula 1 2026 calendar featuring 24 races and six Sprint weekends, including full UK race start times from Australia to Abu Dhabi.
Charles Leclerc tops Bahrain Test 2026 with Ferrari pace, while Aston Martin faces Honda power unit concerns before F1 Australia 2026.
Discussion (0)
Please login to join the discussion.
Latest Comments
No comments yet. Be the first!