SF-26 innovations in danger as FIA considers banning Ferrari aero devices. The FIA is reportedly considering banning two innovative aerodynamic solutions introduced by Ferrari on the SF-26.

FIA targets Ferrari as federation considers banning two SF-26 innovations

The FIA is reportedly taking a stance against Ferrari and could be preparing to ban two innovative aerodynamic solutions that made their debut on the SF-26. These concepts have already attracted attention across the Formula 1 paddock, with several rival teams now attempting to replicate them, raising questions within the governing body about the future direction of aerodynamic development.

Since pre-season testing in Bahrain, the Ferrari car from Maranello has stood out as one of the most original in terms of aerodynamic concepts seen on track. From the so-called “Macarena” front wing to the FTM flick element located behind the exhaust, the SF-26 has introduced several unconventional ideas. While the chassis performance appears strong, one key weakness remains: the power unit. With an estimated 30 horsepower deficit, Ferrari is currently struggling to keep pace with Mercedes-powered cars.

Following a series of upgrades introduced in Miami, not only on the Ferrari but also across the grid, the FIA is now reportedly looking closely at two specific solutions with the intention of potentially banning them in the future.

FIA puts FTM flick element and halo flaps under scrutiny

In China, two small deflectors appeared on the SF-26 around the halo area, positioned where the structure connects at the centre of the car. The technical team led by Serra, together with Diego Tondi’s aerodynamic department, once again pushed the interpretation of the regulations to the limit. The goal was to improve airflow over the driver’s head by managing the aerodynamic separation created by the halo structure.

This solution is part of a wider set of developments commonly referred to as “micro-aerodynamics”. However, following pressure from the FIA, the flaps were removed from the car. Ferrari then introduced a revised version of the concept, this time manufactured in carbon fibre and integrated directly into the halo structure.

This adjustment ensured compliance with the regulations. Nevertheless, despite Ferrari using the updated solution during the Miami weekend, TheRace.com reports that the FIA is now considering banning this concept ahead of the 2027 regulatory cycle. The governing body is concerned that teams may continue to develop increasingly extreme and unconventional aerodynamic solutions.

Another area of concern for the FIA is the FTM flick element positioned in front of the exhaust. The Flick Tail Mode device is designed to utilise exhaust gases even at low engine speeds in order to recover aerodynamic efficiency. The idea from Tondi’s engineers was to fully exploit the concept by using the benefits of an extended diffuser, both to increase its effective length and to improve airflow cleanliness by moving turbulence towards the exhaust exit.

At Maranello, the diffuser was extended upwards to the maximum allowed height, effectively covering the exhaust outlet. In order to comply with this concept, Ferrari had to ensure that the gearbox differential was positioned as far rearward as possible. This required designing a gearbox casing narrow enough to avoid increasing the overall bulk in the central section of the diffuser.

Only Haas has been able to introduce a similar element, as it uses Ferrari-supplied rear-end components. At Miami, however, Mercedes, McLaren, Red Bull, Alpine, Williams and Cadillac all introduced solutions with similar intent, although none are considered close to the complexity or philosophy of Ferrari’s FTM system.

According to the same source, the FIA is aiming to ban the element starting from the 2027 regulations. Unlike previous cases, however, safety concerns cannot be used as justification. This means the matter will need to be discussed with all teams, and a majority vote will be required in order to formally outlaw the solution.