The focus of the FIA delegates was on the active aerodynamics of the front wing.
Checks on active aerodynamics
As is customary at the end of the Australian Grand Prix, the FIA randomly selected one car for more detailed technical inspections in addition to the routine checks related to weight and plank wear on the floor.
In Melbourne, the stewards drew the Mercedes W17 driven by George Russell. The FIA delegates focused their attention on the active aerodynamics of the front wing, which was found to be fully compliant with the technical and sporting regulations.
During the press conference after the race, George Russell pointed out that in his opinion the opening of the front wing should be reduced because it can be slightly dangerous when drivers are engaged in a close battle on track.
“After experiencing today’s race and fighting on track, the only thing I would ask the FIA is that with Straight Mode the front wing does not lower so aggressively. When we activate Straight Mode we have a lot of understeer, and when I was behind Charles and trying to get out of his slipstream it was as if my front wing wasn’t working. So I think from a safety perspective this would make racing safer and better. I don’t see any downside to doing it.”
The successful FIA inspection of the W17 confirms that Mercedes has found a perfectly legal way to maximize the 2026 aero efficiency, even if the drivers find the resulting balance shift unnerving. As the grid moves to Shanghai, the focus on active aero will only intensify. Russell’s feedback about the “loss” of front-end grip when pulling out of a slipstream highlights a new challenge for the 2026 generation of cars: balancing top-end speed with the aero-stability required for overtaking. While the Mercedes remains the benchmark for legality and performance, the debate over how “aggressive” these active systems should be is likely just beginning. For now, the Silver Arrows can head into the Chinese Grand Prix with total confidence in their technical platform.
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