F1 test: is Ferrari’s new rear wing illegal? Rivals weigh possible advantage

Ferrari’s new rear wing immediately sparked debate during the Bahrain F1 tests, with rival teams questioning both its potential performance advantage and whether it complies with the regulations.

Following the introduction of the flap near the diffuser, Ferrari returned to track on Day 2 of the second week of Bahrain testing with an innovative solution that instantly caught the attention of its competitors. On the SF-26’s rear wing, when the so-called ‘straight mode’ is activated, the flap rotates a full 270°, compared to the 90° motion seen on most other cars.

This radical design could allow Ferrari to reduce turbulence, resulting in a potential increase in top speed on the straights. Naturally, this remains an experimental configuration, still under development in Maranello, but it has already caused significant discussion across the paddock.

Is Ferrari’s new rear wing legal?

Rival team engineers have already begun analyzing the possible advantages of Ferrari’s rear wing and questioning whether the solution fully complies with the technical regulations. Sky F1 reporter Matteo Bobbi confirmed that he had discussed the topic with several figures in the paddock: “I spoke with engineers from other teams who are watching this solution very closely. According to the rivals, in addition to the lower drag and therefore higher potential straight-line speed, it could also offer an advantage under braking. At the moment, however, there are some details that might fall outside the regulatory limits. I think this is just a basic version they are working on,” he explained.

It will therefore be important to see whether the FIA will restrict Ferrari from using this type of flap and, above all, whether the team in Maranello will make adjustments to ensure the rear wing is fully legal. One thing is clear: after several seasons of a more conservative approach, Ferrari has decided to go on the offensive and push the technical boundaries once again.

While the innovative 270-degree rotating rear wing on the SF-26 has raised questions regarding its legality, the potential straight-line speed advantage and braking stability it offers could be the game-changer Ferrari needs for the 2026 season opener in Melbourne.