F1 | Monaco GP: Mercedes introduces eye-catching rear wing solution to take on Ferrari. F1 | Monaco GP: Mercedes responds to Ferrari with bold aerodynamic innovation.

Mercedes stuns rivals: movable flap mechanism transformed into a cascade of aerodynamic profiles

Mercedes has absolutely no intention of ending its run of technical superiority after claiming five consecutive victories, including four wins for Kimi Antonelli and one for George Russell. Among the top teams, the Brackley outfit appears to be the only one to have developed a rear wing specifically designed for the Monte Carlo circuit, demonstrating how a technical concept can be transformed into something resembling engineering art.

The FIA decided to ban the use of active aerodynamics for the Monaco Grand Prix in order to prevent Formula 1 cars from reaching unprecedented top speeds on the run to the Harbour Chicane immediately after exiting the Tunnel. To further limit performance, the governing body also restricted the amount of electrical energy available over a lap.

Mercedes was not discouraged by either the regulation changes or the budget cap and has produced a rear wing specifically designed for use in the Principality. The most eye-catching feature is undoubtedly the transformation of the movable flap actuator into what has effectively become a support structure carrying four separate cascades of aerodynamic flaps.

James Allison’s aerodynamic department has completed an extraordinary piece of micro-aerodynamic development, successfully introducing no fewer than eight small aerodynamic profiles within the volume usually occupied by the movable flap control mechanism.

Mercedes pushes aerodynamic creativity to the limit

At the base of the structure sits the first wing profile. Above it, close to the maximum height allowed by the regulations, there is a second aerodynamic element. Slightly further back, the linkage system traditionally used to operate the movable flaps has effectively been transformed into carefully designed supports for three separate groups of winglets descending towards the lower section.

Each group is composed of two appropriately curved aerodynamic profiles designed to generate the maximum possible vertical load. Additional airflow-conditioning elements and a nolder on the trailing edge of the four uppermost components further enhance the effectiveness of what can only be described as a modern aerodynamic sculpture.

Mercedes is therefore preparing to challenge Ferrari, which is widely considered the favorite heading into the streets of Monte Carlo. However, the imaginative flap-support structure is not the only feature attracting attention, as the rear wing has undergone broader revisions.

The main wing profile appears to feature a more pronounced spoon-shaped design compared to the specification seen in Canada, highlighting Mercedes’ determination to maximize downforce for Monaco’s low-speed layout.

The two side-endplate extensions that previously protruded from the trailing edge of the final flap—components produced using rapid prototyping techniques—have now been merged into a single element, while the outermost extension has effectively doubled in height.

The endplate itself also displays a more twisted design compared to the version used in Canada, further underlining the team’s relentless search for aerodynamic load. Every detail points to an obsessive focus on maximizing downforce around the unique streets of Monte Carlo.

Whether these innovative solutions will be enough to challenge Ferrari’s expected advantage remains to be seen. As always, the final verdict will come from the stopwatch once the cars hit the track.