Mercedes introduced a bold new component on the third day of Formula 1’s final 2026 pre-season test in Bahrain, responding swiftly after Ferrari unveiled an eye-catching innovation. All 11 teams were on track in Sakhir for their last opportunity to fine-tune their cars before the new season begins. Mercedes have looked particularly strong so far, with Kimi Antonelli leading the timesheets on day two after George Russell topped day one.
Much of the attention in the paddock has centered on Ferrari’s inventive rear wing and exhaust wing concept. The Italian team revealed a system that allows the wing to pivot dramatically when the new active aerodynamics mode is activated. According to reports, the design could potentially boost straight-line speed by as much as 10 km/h by significantly cutting drag. However, team principal Frédéric Vasseur emphasized that the upgrade remains experimental and may not feature at the opening round in Australia.
Other teams have also been experimenting with creative solutions. Audi tested a concept reminiscent of Mercedes’ earlier “zero sidepod” design, while Cadillac debuted an updated engine cooling package. Still, Ferrari’s solution generated the biggest reaction, with rival teams reportedly surprised by the data it produced. Though complex and difficult to replicate quickly, the design appears to comply with 2026 regulations.
In response, Mercedes arrived on day three with a revised rear wing of their own. The new design incorporates two additional small sections at the outer edges of the upper wing plane, effectively extending its structure. The upper element now curves upward before straightening at the sides, and the lower plane features a more sculpted, three-dimensional shape. Observers have described the added elements as “horns,” designed to increase downforce while keeping drag low when the movable system is engaged.
These innovations are part of teams’ broader efforts to maximize the new active aerodynamics regulations for 2026, which replace the outgoing DRS system. Unlike DRS, which only activated under specific race conditions, the updated system allows drivers to switch between corner mode for higher downforce and straight mode for improved top speed at various points during a lap. With greater flexibility now available, every team is pushing the boundaries of the rules to extract maximum performance before the season gets underway.
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