Ferrari’s innovative SF-26 rear wing has been declared legal by the FIA after pre-season testing in Bahrain. The flipping Active Aero design could redefine straight-line performance under the new 2026 Formula 1 regulations.
Scuderia Flip The Script: Ferrari’s Innovative Rear Wing Approved by FIA
| Short Summary: Ferrari’s innovative rear wing design on the SF-26 has received initial approval from the FIA after being spotted during pre-season testing in Bahrain. Unlike conventional Active Aero setups, Ferrari’s upper rear wing rotates into an inverted position to reduce drag in straight-line mode. FIA technical director Nikolas Tombazis confirmed the concept is legal under the new 2026 regulations, potentially giving Ferrari an early edge in aerodynamic innovation. |
Ferrari’s Radical Rear Wing Gets FIA Approval Under 2026 Active Aero Rules
The rear wing of Ferrari’s SF-26 pivots significantly for Active Aero in line with the 2026 regulations. FIA, under the leadership of Nikolas Tombazis, asserts it is lawful.
The Scuderia is starting the season strong this year, and the FIA isn’t obstructing them.
FIA has issued its preliminary judgment on Ferrari’s striking rear-wing design, first observed during pre-season trials in Bahrain.
The initial call? It is permitted.
As Lewis Hamilton took the SF-26 for a spin on Thursday, keen observers identified an oddity. In “straight mode,” Ferrari’s top rear wing component didn’t merely flatten like the designs of most competitors.
It turned over. Not figuratively, actually. The top surface spun sharply, effectively flipping over upon activation.
A Daring Approach to Active Aero
With Formula 1’s comprehensive 2026 regulations, conventional DRS has been substituted with integrated Active Aero systems. Teams can now dynamically modify both front and rear wings to control drag and energy usage.
Many teams have chosen conservative designs, reducing the upper rear component to minimize drag on straight sections.
Ferrari advanced even more.
Rather than decreasing the angle, the upper rear plane of the SF-26 pivots nearly 180 degrees into an inverted stance. In principle, that could greatly reduce drag — and might even create minor lift, akin to an airplane wing, enhancing straight-line velocity.
On Wednesday, Ferrari operated a more standard setup. By Thursday afternoon, Hamilton returned with the extreme version, with team chief Fred Vasseur not dismissing its use in races.
FIA Ruling
FIA single-seater technical director Nikolas Tombazis stated that the governing body is content… at this time.
“Tombazis stated that, in general, we have promoted solutions that minimize drag.”
“Therefore, the DRS rules from last year, which restricted the extent of opening, have not been kept this year.”
“It aims to provide greater freedom, and we think the Ferrari solution is acceptable.”
Promoted creativity. Utmost liberty. Ferrari paid attention.
If the idea fulfills its promises, competitors might quickly rush back to the drawing board.
