How F1 2026's new active aero will work without DRS

After 15 seasons of rear wing flapping, Formula 1’s drag reduction system (DRS) is being retired in favour of a sophisticated active aerodynamics system.

The 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was the final race where DRS was used, having been introduced during the 2011 season as a solution to the lack of overtaking in the series.

It helped reduce the penalty of running in rivals’ ‘dirty air’ — the aerodynamic turbulence that affects the downforce of following cars — thanks to a moveable mechanism on the rear wing that, when activated, opened a flap to reduce aerodynamic drag and increase straight-line speed.

Drivers had to be within one second of the car in front to activate the system, which offered a top speed advantage of up to 17mph in some cases. The benefit proved controversial, with allegations that it made passing too easy.

From 2026, DRS will disappear and will be replaced by a more complex one that involves multiple elements.

The design features an actuation system on the upper wing elements, enabling a switch to low-drag, low-downforce mode on straights to simulate the upcoming active aerodynamics that will replace DRS.

Below is a look at how it will all work.

Dual-mode aerodynamics

This year, F1 cars will feature moveable front and rear wings, each with multiple elements – three for the rear, two for the front – allowing drivers to switch between two distinct modes.

• Corner mode: A high-downforce set-up for corners, with wings in their standard, closed positions.

• Straight mode: Low-drag set-up for straights, with wings rotated to a reclined position, increasing top speed.

Unlike DRS, which is only available to drivers running within one second of the car ahead and in specific zones, the new active aero system can be activated by any driver at predetermined points on the circuit, regardless of their position relative to other cars.