P1racenews AI automatic summary:
F1 2026 Regulations: What is straight mode?
In 2026, F1 introduces new regulations including the innovative ‘straight mode’, a part of the active aero system that allows cars to adjust their front and rear wings on straights for reduced drag.
This feature replaces the Drag Reduction System (DRS) from previous years, offering drivers the ability to manually switch between straight mode for straights and corner mode for corners.
‘X mode’ is now called ‘straight mode’, designed for designated zones on each track’s straights to optimize speed by lowering wing angles.
The shift from DRS to straight mode by the FIA is due to the advancements in power units, resulting in a need for improved drag reduction to enhance overtaking with overtake mode.
While concerns about turbulent air impacting overtaking remain with straight mode, there is optimism that overtake mode can help mitigate these effects on following cars.
The 2026 F1 season kicks off in Melbourne on Sunday, March 8 for the Australian Grand Prix, with Bahrain testing scheduled for February 11 to 13 in two daily sessions.
