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The FIA is investigating designs by both Red Bull and Ferrari featuring a revolving rear wing, a topic that has been widely discussed in 2026.
The “Macarena”-style rear wing, introduced by both teams at the Miami Grand Prix, rotates 180 degrees to invert the aerodynamics when the car is in low-drag mode.
It is intended to help make sure there is still a good amount of downforce when the car is in low-drag mode.
The part has not helped Red Bull or Ferrari close the gap much on track, which is why there is little in terms of contesting from other teams.
Source: Scuderia Ferrari F1 team
However, the FIA is now looking into its safety after Max Verstappen ran into the gravel at Silverstone due to an issue with his rear wing.
Verstappen expressed his disappointment with the part, citing an airflow reattachment issue in Austria that caused him during qualifying.
“Well, at that point it’s super dangerous, because you can really hurt yourself, two times! I was lucky in Austria, I was lucky here, but that’s why you get really fed up with it,” Verstappen said.
Not only is the FIA looking into the part, but so is Red Bull, according to team principal Laurent Mekies.
“We have raced this [concept] since Miami. There have been a number of races, so it’s too early in the analysis to establish whether it’s an issue with the concept or something else,” Mekies said.
“But we are going for sure to leave no stone unturned when it comes to it, and we have all the options open.”
Max Verstappen seen during the FIA Formula 1 World Championship at the Red Bull Ring in Spielberg, Austria on June 26, 2026 // Philip Platzer / Red Bull Ring
As for Ferrari, since they have not encountered any known issues, there is likely less for them to do. The teams had to prove that the wings were safe from the outset, but the FIA may need to bring in new testing.
In the end, the teams are at the mercy of the FIA, who can unleash whatever punishment they see fit.
“The stewards may prohibit the participation of a vehicle whose construction is deemed to be dangerous. Should the relevant information become apparent during a session, such a decision may apply with immediate effect,” the FIA rules read.
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The “Macarena”-style rear wing, introduced by both teams at the Miami Grand Prix, rotates 180 degrees to invert the aerodynamics when the car is in low-drag mode.
It is intended to help make sure there is still a good amount of downforce when the car is in low-drag mode.
The part has not helped Red Bull or Ferrari close the gap much on track, which is why there is little in terms of contesting from other teams.
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Source: Scuderia Ferrari F1 team
However, the FIA is now looking into its safety after Max Verstappen ran into the gravel at Silverstone due to an issue with his rear wing.
Verstappen expressed his disappointment with the part, citing an airflow reattachment issue in Austria that caused him during qualifying.
“Well, at that point it’s super dangerous, because you can really hurt yourself, two times! I was lucky in Austria, I was lucky here, but that’s why you get really fed up with it,” Verstappen said.
What is next for Red Bull and Ferrari?
Not only is the FIA looking into the part, but so is Red Bull, according to team principal Laurent Mekies.
“We have raced this [concept] since Miami. There have been a number of races, so it’s too early in the analysis to establish whether it’s an issue with the concept or something else,” Mekies said.
“But we are going for sure to leave no stone unturned when it comes to it, and we have all the options open.”
You must be registered for see images attach
Max Verstappen seen during the FIA Formula 1 World Championship at the Red Bull Ring in Spielberg, Austria on June 26, 2026 // Philip Platzer / Red Bull Ring
As for Ferrari, since they have not encountered any known issues, there is likely less for them to do. The teams had to prove that the wings were safe from the outset, but the FIA may need to bring in new testing.
In the end, the teams are at the mercy of the FIA, who can unleash whatever punishment they see fit.
“The stewards may prohibit the participation of a vehicle whose construction is deemed to be dangerous. Should the relevant information become apparent during a session, such a decision may apply with immediate effect,” the FIA rules read.
Continue reading...
