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STORY · EMERGING
Baku’s long straights make the 2026 active rear wing a consequential setup choice. Gary Anderson’s technical comparison describes four approaches: a DRS-like opening used by Mercedes and several others; a flip-flop flap design associated with Ferrari, Red Bull and McLaren; Alpine’s method of lowering the flap’s trailing edge; and Audi’s related pivoting-flap solution. Anderson argues that the concepts trade drag reduction against how the wing restores downforce and airflow as it returns to cornering mode. McLaren is set to bring its flip-flop wing back after racing it only at Monza, making its Baku use a particular point of interest.
FULL BRIEF
Baku’s long straights make the 2026 active rear wing a consequential setup choice. Gary Anderson’s technical comparison describes four approaches: a DRS-like opening used by Mercedes and several others; a flip-flop flap design associated with Ferrari, Red Bull and McLaren; Alpine’s method of lowering the flap’s trailing edge; and Audi’s related pivoting-flap solution. Anderson argues that the concepts trade drag reduction against how the wing restores downforce and airflow as it returns to cornering mode. McLaren is set to bring its flip-flop wing back after racing it only at Monza, making its Baku use a particular point of interest.
WHAT CHANGED
Anderson’s comparison sets out how the four active-wing concepts differ in straight mode and during the return to cornering mode, giving the Baku weekend a specific technical storyline beyond the general importance of straight-line speed. He reports that McLaren’s flip-flop design, raced only at Monza so far, is due back in Baku. The piece does not report a new regulation or a measured performance ranking from Baku.
EVIDENCE TIMELINE