The 2026 Monaco Grand Prix will be raced under unique conditions, as Formula 1 drivers will not be allowed to use the active aerodynamics systems introduced under the new regulations. According to reports from The-Race.com, the FIA has decided to disable active aero throughout the entire Monaco weekend, meaning teams will run with closed wings and no straight-line mode in the Principality.
Why the FIA made this decision
That means no “Macarena” wing advantage for Ferrari in Monaco. The FIA’s ruling ensures that active aerodynamics will not be available at any point during the event, making Monaco a one-off exception within the 2026 Formula 1 calendar.
The governing body reached this decision for several reasons. The most important concerns the way active aerodynamics are designed to operate. The system is intended to be activated in sections of the track where cars are not at the limit of traction or grip, effectively in areas where the car is under relatively low stress.
Monaco, however, offers very few opportunities that meet those criteria. The narrow and demanding street circuit requires drivers to remain constantly engaged, with cars spending very little time in situations where active aero would provide a meaningful benefit.
The FIA also concluded that asking drivers to manage an additional control related to active aerodynamics would place an unnecessary burden on them around a circuit that already demands maximum concentration. Monaco is widely regarded as one of the most physically and mentally demanding tracks on the Formula 1 calendar, and the Federation felt that introducing another operational task would only increase the workload inside the cockpit.
Another factor behind the decision was safety. The FIA believed that active aerodynamics could create significant speed differentials between cars approaching corners, potentially increasing the risks associated with racing on Monaco’s notoriously tight layout.
How overtaking assistance will work in Monaco
With active aerodynamics disabled, all cars will run with their wings in a closed configuration throughout the weekend. However, Formula 1 will still retain an overtaking assistance mechanism.
The overtake mode will closely resemble the old DRS system that was previously used at the Monaco circuit. Drivers will receive an additional energy boost before the Antony Noghès corner if, at the detection point located at the exit of the second Swimming Pool chicane, they are within one second of the car ahead.
The decision is expected to have a significant impact on the competitive balance in Monaco. With active aero removed from the equation, chassis performance, mechanical grip, driver confidence and low-speed cornering ability will become even more decisive factors. This could play into the hands of teams that have prioritized handling characteristics over outright engine performance under Formula 1’s new 2026 regulations.
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