P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Technical analyst Paolo Filisetti takes a look at an eye-catching feature on the 2026 Mercedes W17.
There has been a heated debate surrounding the legality of a large vertical slot near the diffuser in the 2026 Mercedes W17 since its unveiling.
The presence of similar slots in the 2025 generation of cars aimed to channel airflow centrally through the diffuser, speeding it up to boost downforce from the floor.
In 2026, with the return of the rake design, ensuring efficient airflow is crucial, as the rear floor is higher than the front.
Article 3.5 of the technical regulations specifically addresses floor bodywork and prohibits holes that would expose certain components underneath.
The Mercedes design adheres to these regulations by presenting a curvature at the edge of the diffuser, rather than a hole through the floor.
This interpretation confirms that the Mercedes’ design is legal and compliant with the regulations set forth.
