Ferrari unveiled a rotating rear wing for its 2026 Formula 1 car during pre-season testing in Bahrain, featuring a 180-degree flip mechanism. The design integrates an actuator into the endplate, echoing a controversial element from Mercedes' 2011 car. The FIA has approved the solution under the new regulations aimed at reducing drag.
Ferrari surprised the Formula 1 paddock with its imaginative designs during pre-season testing in Bahrain. The Scuderia introduced a rear wing on the SF-26 that flips 180 degrees, alongside a new feature behind the exhaust to maximize volume allowed by the 2026 regulations.
To enable the full rotation, Ferrari's engineers redesigned the control system, moving the actuator from the central mainplane to inside the endplate. This sophisticated setup must withstand high loads, as rear actuators are typically bulky. The design recalls Mercedes' 2011 car, where a similar endplate actuator sparked controversy and contributed to the German team's banned double DRS system. However, Ferrari's implementation differs, supporting greater rotation and handling higher loads from increased top speeds and larger flaps.
The wing may activate up to four times per lap on certain tracks, raising reliability concerns for the miniaturized endplate control. Regulations require a safety mechanism to return flaps to closed position in case of malfunction. Ferrari also adjusted the pivot point toward the center and enlarged the first element's end for the new geometry.
Discussions arose about whether the wing exceeds volume limits during its near-vertical rotation phase, but the FIA provided legal approval. The 2026 rules grant freedoms to reduce straight-line drag and energy use, allowing the wing to exit the regulatory box during movement while remaining within bounds when closed.
