P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes has become the latest team to push the boundaries with F1 rear wing design, with an interesting development appearing on the car on the final day of 2026 pre-season testing
Mercedes unveiled a new rear wing design during the 2026 pre-season testing in Bahrain, featuring a unique development added on the final day.
The team incorporated a small fourth element in the rear wing design, aimed at reducing drag and potential airflow separation issues.
The additional section on the wing focuses on improving downforce in cornering mode while minimizing drag in straight-line situations.
Despite the regulations limiting teams to three elements on the rear wing, Mercedes leveraged the allowance for add-ons in the endplate area.
This innovative design includes a slot gap and staggered gurney flap for enhanced aerodynamic performance and airflow management.
The strategic placement of the fourth element can optimize the overall efficiency of the rear wing assembly, showcasing Mercedes’ technical ingenuity in Formula 1.
