Mercedes has issued a warning to the entire paddock regarding the new Formula 1 cars that will debut in 2026. The concern is whether the sport could face a fresh aerodynamic issue similar to the porpoising that dominated the early phase of the 2022 season.
During the first test sessions in Barcelona in 2022, the new ground-effect cars revealed their biggest problem: porpoising. Despite extensive wind-tunnel simulations, the aerodynamic oscillation only appeared at the high speeds achieved on track. With a new set of technical regulations approaching, some fear that the 2026 cars could hide another unexpected aerodynamic trap.
Next year, Formula 1 will abandon ground-effect floors and return to flat floors. This guarantees that porpoising, which is linked to ground-effect aerodynamics, will not reappear. However, even if that issue can be ruled out, new and unpredictable challenges may still arise.
Andrew Shovlin’s considerations
The 2026 Formula 1 cars will feature both a new power unit and active aerodynamics. The new engine regulations will divide energy production evenly between electrical power and internal combustion, while the aerodynamic package will include active elements that drivers can control through a manual override used strategically. Mercedes engineer Andrew Shovlin shared his thoughts on these changes. “It’s definitely an important factor because there is a shortage of energy, and you need to do everything possible to harvest as much as you can.”
Andrew Shovlin continued by explaining that overtaking phases could become longer and more complex: “There will be cases where it will be relatively easy to overtake at the start of a lap, but if you’ve driven that way you’ll be caught later on. That’s how the situation will evolve.” However, he added that this will be more of a strategic challenge than a performance deficit: “It won’t necessarily be a major performance factor, but it will be an important factor for race strategies.”
In conclusion, Andrew Shovlin believes drivers will play a crucial strategic role: “Strategic opportunities will be created for the driver. It will be important to understand where to use it.”
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