Key Highlights
- One area where this applies is the front wing. DRS will disappear from F1 in 2026 and be replaced by active aerodynamics, meaning drivers will open both the front and rear wings on every straight.
- As a result, the front wing will become an active component too, unlike in previous seasons. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementMercedes prototype draws attention in the pitlaneA first glimpse of the future can be seen in Abu Dhabi on the Mercedes mule car driven by Andrea Kimi Antonelli.
- The car is equipped with a Straight Line Mode system, allowing the front wing to generate less drag on the straights. Mercedes’ system at this test is far from refined, with an actuation system on the upper wing elements connected to the nose cone with via large tubing.
- This allows the wing to switch to a low-downforce configuration on the straights, mirroring what will be used in a more sophisticated way in 2026. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementMercedes front wing detailMercedes front wing detailFerrari has also gained experience with a similar concept.
- The Scuderia tested its own prototype during a private mule-car test and has also brought its own system to Abu Dhabi. Besides offering teams early insight into active aerodynamics, these prototypes also provide valuable data to Pirelli.
