P1racenews AI automatic summary:
McLaren’s Oscar Piastri gave an in-depth insight into F1 2026’s new active aero
McLaren Formula 1 driver Oscar Piastri finds the new active aero for 2026 akin to DRS, but with a different purpose.
The 2026 season brings a shift to smaller, lighter cars with new engines featuring a 50/50 split of combustion and electric power.
Active aero on front and rear wings replaces DRS, providing more activation areas and manual operation to reduce drag, with wings closing in corners for maximum downforce.
Piastri notes that active aero feels more powerful but maintains a similar essence to DRS, with the overtake button replacing DRS as an aid for passing.
While the changes aim to enhance racing, explaining these complex systems on TV broadcasts may pose initial challenges.
