P1racenews AI automatic summary:
F1’s 2026 active aero plan set for change after alarming simulator findings
Efforts are being made to enhance car performance to adapt to the characteristics of the new turbo hybrid engines with a 50/50 power split between the internal combustion engine and battery, which will include moveable aero. One approach considered was enabling the car’s wings to switch between high-downforce in corners for grip and low drag on straights for speed. Testing revealed challenges when only the rear wing was moveable, causing balance issues and making the car difficult to drive at full power. The FIA visited teams to analyze simulator results and concluded that both front and rear wings need to move together in the 2026 aero plan for desired performance. Red Bull’s Christian Horner expressed support for FIA responsiveness to team feedback on the aerodynamic regulations and stressed the importance of finalizing the chassis rules to align with the power units for the 2026 season. Coordination between teams and the FIA continues in shaping the regulations to ensure competitive and safe racing in the future.
