Why Ferrari has already revealed a key element of the new 2026 F1 car
Ferrari has become the first team to showcase the active aerodynamics of the new Formula 1 era during the shakedown of the SF-26. The Scuderia was the first 2026 car to reveal, in public, one of the most significant technical innovations introduced by the new regulations.
During the shakedown at Ferrari’s private Fiorano circuit, observers were able to clearly spot the operation of the active aerodynamic system fitted to the SF-26, immediately drawing the attention of fans and technical experts alike.
Images and videos of the car, which initially circulated on social media, were later shared by Formula 1’s official channels as well. F1 itself explained how the new movable aerodynamic elements work, highlighting their importance within the framework of the 2026 technical regulations.
Despite the system being clearly visible, it will take more time before it can be seen operating under truly extreme conditions. A shakedown is primarily designed to verify the general functionality of the car, with running carried out at relatively low speeds.
As a result, active aerodynamics cannot yet be observed at their full potential, particularly in the high-speed phases for which the system has been specifically designed.
How the 2026 F1 active aerodynamics seen on Ferrari at Fiorano work
Active aerodynamics will officially debut in Formula 1 from the 2026 season, representing one of the most significant changes of the new regulatory cycle. The core principle is to vary the configuration of the front and rear wings depending on the driving phase.
The system is based on two distinct operating states. The first is Corner Mode, which represents the standard configuration. In this mode, the wing flaps remain in their traditional position, generating the maximum possible aerodynamic load to ensure grip and stability through corners.
The second state is Straight Mode, which is available only in specific areas of the circuit defined by the FIA. In this configuration, the flaps open up to reduce aerodynamic drag and increase top speed along the straights.
The differences between active aerodynamics and DRS
Unlike the DRS system used over the past fifteen years, the activation of active aerodynamics is not linked to the gap to the car ahead. Instead, the system is programmed and managed directly by the driver, with the aim of promoting overtaking in a more structured and predictable way.
Within this framework, the so-called Overtake Mode is set to replace DRS entirely, introducing a new philosophy for managing straight-line speed in Formula 1.
As soon as the driver lifts off the throttle to prepare for braking, the car automatically returns to Corner Mode, restoring the high-downforce configuration to maximise control during corner entry. The complexity of the system goes far beyond simply installing actuators to move the wings.
Teams have worked extensively on managing aerodynamic airflow during the transition between the two modes, as this phase is critical to overall performance and drivability.
The real compromise lies in designing wings capable of delivering maximum downforce under normal conditions, while also being able to significantly reduce drag when activated on the straights.
Crucial to the system’s success is the speed at which airflow can reattach to the wing surfaces when the car switches back to Corner Mode. Without immediate reattachment, the driver would risk losing stability and grip at the most delicate moment, namely during braking and initial corner entry.
With the SF-26, Ferrari has therefore become the first team to reveal a key element of the new Formula 1 era, officially opening a window onto the aerodynamic revolution that will define the 2026 season.
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