Audi has developed its own active aerodynamics system, distinct from Alpine’s unconventional solution and from the traditional setups used by other teams. With the start of the 2026 Formula 1 season approaching, technical innovations continue to emerge. Active aerodynamics, alongside the engine, is one of the hottest topics, with attention focused on how teams allow the front and rear wings to move dynamically.
Recently, Alpine made headlines with a unique rear wing design, unlike anything seen in recent years. But Alpine isn’t alone: Audi has also created its own mechanism for active aerodynamics, conceptually different from both Alpine and the conventional approaches of other teams.
The new technical regulations give designers significant freedom, leading to a variety of innovative solutions. On the rear wing flaps, for example, teams are experimenting with different ways to control the opening of the two movable flaps.
On Audi, rear wing flaps open obliquely
Traditionally, all teams have used a conventional DRS system: the flap is lifted and rotated upwards, with the pivot point at the trailing edge of the third element. This creates a gap between the fixed main profile and the movable flap.
Alpine, on the other hand, adopted the opposite approach: the team pushes the flaps downward, with the pivot point at the front of the flap, so the three elements align almost completely.
Audi has chosen a middle ground between the two. The flaps are pushed upward, like in the traditional system, but the pivot point lies between the two movable flaps, resulting in an oblique orientation. The flaps also appear angled downward, as if the team is trying to generate aerodynamic lift.
Each approach has pros and cons, and determining the most efficient solution is not straightforward. It’s likely that over time, teams will converge toward similar methods. The new technical regulations are proving extremely interesting, with every single detail potentially decisive for performance.
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