Mercedes remains the only top team not to feature the folding mobile rear wing, first spotted on the Ferrari during pre-season testing in Bahrain. Despite this, the Brackley-based squad had evaluated the solution over a year ago before ultimately choosing not to push forward with the project development.
Deputy Technical Director Simone Resta explained the technical reasons behind the decision during the latest episode of The Nu Silver Arrows Radio Show podcast, while also refusing to rule out a potential change of heart for the team down the road regarding active aerodynamic solutions.
During an exclusive interview with FormulaPassion last summer, Simone Resta had already revealed that Mercedes assessed the folding mobile rear wing concept. The senior engineer outlined why the team held back from developing the project further during its preliminary assessment phases.
“We had this type of wing among our drawings over a year ago. We evaluated the concept in detail. Of course, it offers a benefit in terms of drag reduction, but every time it opens it also lowers downforce. At the time, we felt that the overall compromise did not justify the investment for the development and production of the components,” Simone Resta stated.
The folding rear wing completely reverses the wing profiles. By making them work in reverse, they no longer generate downward push, but rather upward force like an airplane wing. Since aerodynamic load is mainly used to increase cornering grip, its reduction on straights is not inherently an issue. However, if exaggerated, the risk is that the car might lighten up too much and become unstable on track.
Even though the Macarena project was shelved by Mercedes, Simone Resta keeps the door open for future implementation, demonstrating that the engineering group continues to monitor competitive solutions seen elsewhere in the paddock.
“That conclusion is not necessarily definitive, we could re-evaluate it. We remain humble, judge every solution we see elsewhere and consider whether it might be useful for us to adopt it,” Simone Resta added regarding future possibilities.
This technical stance highlights Mercedes' distinct approach to active aerodynamics compared to their direct rivals, echoing previous design iterations tested on front wings alongside young driver Antonelli during practice sessions.
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