Director of Single-Seaters at the FIA, Nikolas Tombazis, clarified the functionality of the proposed movable aerodynamic systems in the preliminary regulations for the 2026 Formula 1, following concerns regarding reliability and safety.
Last week, the FIA revealed a preliminary set of chassis and aerodynamic regulations for the 2026 Formula 1 season, which includes several changes to the current Formula 1 format.
One of the modifications involves the integration of movable front and rear wings, allowing cars to switch between high and low drag configurations during corners and straights.
This change is considered essential in facilitating energy recovery during high-speed races, as the 2026 power units will heavily rely on electric propulsion.
However, concerns have been raised regarding the safety of the movable aerodynamic system, especially with regards to the potential automation of the transition between high and low drag.
Tombazis clarified that the drivers will maintain primary control, similar to the Drag Reduction System (DRS), and rigorous testing will be conducted to prevent system failures.
“The approach we will take is similar to the DRS,” Tombazis explained to a select group of media representatives. “So, with the DRS, the driver needs to meet certain criteria in terms of distance or lap time difference to the car in front at a specific point and then they can activate it.
“But it is the driver who presses a button to activate and deactivate the DRS. So, when considering how the DRS works, we believe the approach for mode X [low drag] will be identical.
“Certain conditions must be met, such as very low or zero lateral acceleration, essentially when exiting a curve. If these conditions are satisfied, the pilot will be able to press the button.”
Tombazis emphasized that the system will not be automated. However, if the pilot does not deactivate the low drag before entering a curve, an automatic safety system will be activated.
“We will ensure that it is deactivated,” he said.
Tombazis is confident that a thorough and rigorous testing approach for the proposed aerodynamic system, along with the knowledge gained from the implementation of DRS, will ensure safe and reliable races when the 2026 season begins competitively.
“The analysis of possible failures and the system’s susceptibility to them will undergo the same meticulous approach that was used with DRS. We will ensure that the system functions as intended during the initial deployment in winter testing and does not encounter ongoing reliability issues or, worse, safety concerns,” he explained.
“While some teams may encounter minor difficulties during the first winter test, this is expected. However, I genuinely believe that the experience gained with DRS over the years can be effectively applied to the new system. Therefore, it will not pose a significant challenge for teams in terms of functionality and safety, as it will be present on almost every straight.”
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The football star Cristiano Ronaldo scored another impressive goal during yesterday’s match. The Portuguese player, known for his exceptional skill, once again showed why he is considered one of the best in the world.
The game, which took place at the local stadium, was a true spectacle. Ronaldo started the game with a lot of energy, dribbling past opponents and creating several goal-scoring opportunities. In the 15th minute of the second half, he made a perfect pass to his teammate, who skillfully finished and scored the first goal of the match.
But the most exciting moment came in the 30th minute of the second half, when Ronaldo received the ball at the edge of the area and, with a precise shot, sent the ball straight into the back of the net. The crowd went crazy with the spectacular goal from the Portuguese star.
Despite the efforts of the opponents, Ronaldo’s team managed to maintain the advantage until the end of the game, securing the victory. With yet another brilliant performance, Cristiano Ronaldo solidifies himself as one of the greatest players in the history of football. His skill and determination are truly impressive.
There is no doubt that the future holds even more achievements for this talented player. Fans eagerly await the next games to see what Ronaldo will be capable of on the field. With his determination and talent, he is destined to become a football legend.