Formula 1 is preparing for an increase in the use of active aerodynamics in cars starting from the 2026 rules. The FIA and the championship promoter are finalizing the design rules for 2026, which will include simplified hybrid engines. Although initial ideas, such as a reverse DRS to possibly slow down a leading car, have been abandoned, the FIA plans significant changes in active aerodynamics.
Adrian Newey, Technical Director of Red Bull, commented on the expansion of active aerodynamics in F1 in an exclusive interview with Motorsport.com. He does not see concerns with the increase in active aerodynamics, considering it a way to compensate for the lack of engine power. Newey also highlighted that active aerodynamics is an important part of road cars and that F1 has been a good means of popularizing technologies in street cars.
Newey believes that active aerodynamics is the future of road cars and, therefore, it is appropriate for Formula 1 to demonstrate its power. He mentioned that F1 has been effective in popularizing technologies such as disc brakes and carbon fiber in sports cars.
