By Bilal Ahmed
McLaren’s Wing Development
McLaren is set to introduce a modified version of its flip-over rear wing at Formula 1’s Hungarian Grand Prix. However, the team does not intend to race with the new component until at least September. The original version of this wing was brought to the Austrian Grand Prix in late June for testing but was ultimately not used.
Following modifications, McLaren plans to debut the updated wing during the first practice session in Hungary. This session will also see reigning Formula 2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli participate in his second F1 practice outing of the year. Despite the upcoming test, McLaren has indicated that this item is not scheduled for full introduction at the Hungarian race or the subsequent race in the Netherlands, which is the first event after the F1 summer break.
This timeline suggests that the Italian Grand Prix at Monza could be the earliest opportunity for McLaren to race with the new wing, provided that the tests prove successful. The updated flip-over wing is part of a broader package of upgrades for McLaren, which includes a new floor and additional aerodynamic components. Team boss Andrea Stella stated that these developments are part of a plan to “redirect” the car’s development away from some of its initial concept choices.
Ferrari’s Macarena Wing Evolution
Meanwhile, Scuderia Ferrari, a team that has previously utilized a radical rear wing design dubbed the ‘Macarena’ wing, is also reportedly preparing a significant evolution of its own. This design, which mechanically rotates up to 270 degrees on the straights to reduce drag, underwent an extensive on-track testing program, including a debut in Bahrain’s pre-season test, before being raced from Miami in May.
As the Formula 1 grid heads to the Hungaroring, Italian media reports suggest that an updated version of Ferrari’s ‘Macarena’ rear wing is ready and could make its competitive debut in Hungary. The Hungarian Grand Prix circuit is known for demanding maximum aerodynamic grip, making straight-line speed less critical than maintaining rear axle stability through its numerous medium-speed corners.
To address these high downforce requirements, Ferrari’s new high-downforce specification reportedly incorporates additional ‘hanger flaps’. These elements are designed to substantially increase rear load, a concept that rival constructor Mercedes has been employing since pre-season testing. By integrating these extra flap elements, Ferrari aims to generate crucial additional downforce to stabilize the SF-26 through Budapest’s technical middle sector.
This aggressive upgrade is described as a highly targeted development, focused on maximizing the performance of the current SF-26 chassis rather than being a foundational concept for future seasons. This approach indicates that Maranello is committed to its current campaign, allocating development budget to specialized, track-specific solutions to optimize its points haul at one of the calendar’s most aerodynamically demanding circuits.
In related news, Red Bull had temporarily set aside its flip-over rear wing after crashes involving Max Verstappen in Austria and Britain, but the team has stated that it has found a solution and the wing will return.
Upcoming Race and Testing
Both McLaren and Ferrari are focusing on aerodynamic developments ahead of upcoming races. McLaren’s testing of its modified flip-over wing in Hungary will be a crucial step in its potential introduction later in the season. The team’s strategy involves a phased introduction, with the Italian Grand Prix at Monza being the earliest possible race debut for the new component.
Ferrari’s reported introduction of an updated ‘Macarena’ wing in Hungary highlights its commitment to optimizing performance for specific circuit demands. The focus on high-downforce solutions for the Hungaroring underscores the importance of aerodynamic grip at this particular venue. These developments from both teams indicate a continuous effort to refine car performance throughout the season.
The Hungarian Grand Prix is scheduled to feature these significant aerodynamic developments from both McLaren and Ferrari, with testing for McLaren’s new wing set to occur during the first practice session.
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Source: the-race.com
