McLaren Formula 1 driver Oscar Piastri described the new active aerodynamic system introduced for the 2026 season as feeling very similar to the Drag Reduction System (DRS), despite their distinct purposes. The 2026 regulations bring significant changes to Formula 1, featuring smaller, lighter cars with ground effect banned and new hybrid engines combining internal combustion and electric power equally.
One of the major updates is the implementation of active aero on both the front and rear wings, replacing DRS, which had been the overtaking feature since its 2011 debut. This aerodynamics system allows wing flaps to open within certain zones on every lap, reducing drag—much like DRS did—though with a broader number of activation zones spread across circuits.
How the Active Aerodynamics Affect Car Handling According to Piastri
At a recent McLaren media event, Piastri explained how driving with the wings open under this active aero system produces sensations similar to those experienced with DRS. However, he noted the way the car’s balance shifts under this system is different, describing it as more subdued or “lazy” compared to the sharp forward balance change caused by DRS.
“It’s a very similar feeling to when we had DRS,”
Piastri said.
He elaborated that DRS created a significant forward aero shift, making the car feel sharp and “pointy,” whereas the new active aero causes less distinct movement in aero balance, leading to a feeling of reduced grip on both front and rear axles.
“It’s a similar feeling to DRS, probably more powerful, but it’s not a huge departure from what we’ve had. Obviously, the purpose of it is just very different.”
Active Aero’s Role Compared to DRS and New Overtake Button
The active aero flaps are manually controlled, automatically closing when drivers apply brakes to maximize downforce through corners. This system differs in intent from DRS, which served primarily as an overtaking aid. Instead, active aero focuses on reducing drag and relieving constraints on the power unit.
Alongside these changes, Formula 1 will introduce an overtake button in 2026 to assist drivers when trailing within one second of a competitor, effectively replacing DRS’s overtaking function.
“It effectively works the same as DRS,”
Piastri added, discussing how active aero will operate during races.
He highlighted that many circuits will have more activation zones than the traditional two DRS zones, citing Barcelona as an example where the number of zones remained familiar. Despite this, he stressed that the fundamental role of the system has shifted away from overtaking towards aerodynamic efficiency and power optimization.
Challenges in Communicating New Systems to Fans
Piastri expressed concern that the new aerodynamic devices and their functions might be harder to explain and less visually obvious to audiences, especially during broadcasts. This lack of immediate clarity may contribute to confusion or difficulty in understanding the new technical aspects of the cars.
“But that’s a challenge and adaptation you’ll have to make with any change in a sport.”
Looking Ahead for Formula 1’s Active Aero Evolution
The introduction of active aero marks a substantial shift in Formula 1’s aerodynamic approach and overall race dynamics. While drivers like Oscar Piastri acknowledge the similarities to the former DRS system, the new regulations aim to enhance efficiency and balance by blending manual control with automatic safety features.
This evolution may affect race strategies and overtaking methods as teams adapt to the added zones and integrate the overtake button into their tactics. Fans and broadcasters alike will need time to adjust to these nuanced changes in car behavior and race presentation, with the potential to redefine competitive racing starting from the 2026 season.
