FIA confirms a third mode for active aerodynamics in 2026 F1 cars. Active aerodynamics: a third mode will debut in 2026.

Active aerodynamics: a third mode will debut in 2026

The 2026 technical regulations continue to evolve just weeks before the new Formula 1 cars hit the track. The latest meeting of the World Motor Sport Council has approved a new mode for activating active aerodynamics, allowing a partial opening of movable wings. This addition comes from the need to balance safety requirements with energy management in wet conditions, although it could also be applied in specific dry scenarios.

The three modes

The new active aerodynamics system will be significantly different from the previous DRS, both technically and functionally. The system will control two profiles on the rear wing, compared to the single movable flap of older cars, as well as two elements on the front wing. Overall, the effectiveness is estimated to be three times higher than the old Drag Reduction System, and the activation rules will also differ.

Following the changes ratified by the recent World Motor Sport Council, the 2026 technical regulations now define three operational scenarios. The first is the straight-line mode, called X-Mode, which involves full opening of both profiles on the front and rear wings. Opposite this is the cornering or Z-mode, where the wings remain closed to generate maximum downforce. The third function is partial activation, opening only the front wing, designed for very specific situations.

Partial activation

The introduction of an intermediate mode reflects the fact that in 2026, active aerodynamics will no longer primarily assist overtaking, as the old DRS did, but will serve as an energy management tool. Drivers can activate it in predefined zones, regardless of whether they are attacking, defending, or driving alone. However, the question of wet conditions had to be addressed. Completely banning wing activation in the rain would have been an obvious choice, but it would increase drag on straights and rapidly deplete battery energy. Excessive downforce with wings closed could also press the car into the track, quickly wearing the plank under the floor.

For this reason, it was agreed that race control can allow partial activation, meaning only the front wing opens, in wet conditions. If this scenario occurs during a qualifying session, such as Q1, Q2, or Q3, the rules for active aerodynamics must remain in effect until the end of that session. However, the regulations do not exclude the possibility of partial mode being used on dry sections as well, for instance on long straights with slight curves that would be unsafe with fully open wings. Initially, the FIA will likely take a cautious approach, adjusting rules as teams gain experience with the new cars.