The first Hungarian GP technical updates have emerged from the Hungaroring pitlane, with Ferrari introducing a three-profile supplementary rear-wing solution for the high-downforce circuit. Aston Martin have arrived with a substantially revised B-spec car, while photographs have also revealed previously unseen details on the Mercedes diffuser, Racing Bulls airbox and Alpine rear-wing supports.
The Hungaroring is a short and twisting circuit with only one true straight and numerous corners arranged closely together. The teams will therefore use high-downforce configurations similar to those seen in Monaco, prioritising traction, stability and rapid changes of direction. Ferrari’s latest solution accompanies the previously revealed upgraded rear wing fitted to the SF-26.
Hungarian GP technical demands: energy, braking and tyres
From an energy perspective, the Hungaroring should not be one of the most critical circuits of the season. Its numerous braking zones help energy recovery, but the available electrical energy must still be distributed precisely at the limited points where it can improve lap time or assist overtaking, particularly along the main straight. The implications of the new regulations are explored further in the analysis of energy deployment at the Hungaroring.
According to Brembo, the circuit receives a brake-difficulty rating of four out of five. The drivers brake at eight of its 14 corners, while the longer braking distances of the 2026 Formula 1 cars allow greater regeneration through the MGU-K. Braking performance and electrical-energy management are therefore directly connected, as explained in Brembo’s Hungarian Grand Prix analysis.
Pirelli will supply the C3, C4 and C5 compounds. High temperatures and the repeated traction phases could increase rear-tyre degradation, potentially keeping both one-stop and two-stop strategies in contention. However, because overtaking is difficult at the Hungaroring, track position will also be decisive.
Against this technical background, the images collected from the pitlane show how the teams have adapted their wings, cooling systems, brakes and aerodynamic configurations for a slow and twisting circuit. Although the layout appears favourable for energy recovery, every available resource will need to be used with exceptional precision.
Ferrari introduce three-profile rear-wing solution
Like Monaco, the Hungaroring demands an extremely high level of downforce. Additional “monkey seat”-style elements have consequently returned on several rear-wing configurations. Ferrari used only one small supplementary element in Monaco, but have brought a three-profile solution to Hungary.
The addition is intended for a circuit where the SF-26’s low-speed corner performance could become particularly important.
Close-up of Ferrari’s three-profile supplementary rear-wing solution at the Hungaroring.
Aston Martin arrive with substantially revised B-spec car
Adrian Newey’s team have brought a B-spec version of their car to Hungary. The new package includes a redesigned nose, extensively revised aerodynamic surfaces, changes to the rear suspension and a significant reduction in weight.
Both the chassis and gearbox have been lightened. The front section of the survival cell has also been put through the homologation process and crash tests again, illustrating the scale of the changes incorporated into the revised package.
Rare Mercedes diffuser view and rear-wing detail
A rare side-on photograph provides a revealing view of the individual elements forming the Mercedes diffuser. The image offers an unusual perspective on an area of the car that is normally difficult to inspect while assembled.
Rare side view showing the arrangement of the Mercedes diffuser elements.
A second photograph highlights an additional element fitted to the Mercedes rear wing. The team arrive in Hungary believing that the W17 can challenge Ferrari at the Hungaroring.
Detail of the supplementary element on the Mercedes rear wing.
Racing Bulls modify the airbox area
Racing Bulls have introduced a new deflector around the airbox. The pitlane photograph provides a close look at the profile and positioning of the revised component.
Close-up of the new deflector around the Racing Bulls airbox.
Alpine rear-wing support echoes previous Red Bull idea
The final photograph focuses on the area around Alpine’s rear-wing supports. A similar solution had previously been observed within Red Bull’s design.
Detail of Alpine’s rear-wing support area, where the design recalls a solution previously seen on Red Bull.
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