George Russell reveals five F1 teams blocked Silverstone wing proposal. George Russell explains why Formula 1 rejected open wings at Silverstone.

Russell reveals: “Five of the 11 teams voted against open wings between Turn 1 and Turn 3, and they weren’t Mercedes-powered teams”

George Russell has revealed an intriguing behind-the-scenes story from the Formula 1 paddock, explaining that five of the sport’s 11 teams voted against a proposal that could have eased the energy management challenges expected at Silverstone.

A behind-the-scenes vote comes to light

Following the Austrian Grand Prix, Max Verstappen pointed out during the post-race press conference that Silverstone would present a completely different challenge because the circuit offers very few opportunities for drivers to recharge their batteries. As a result, the 2026 Formula 1 cars are expected to run short of electrical energy by the end of each lap.

According to George Russell, however, there was an opportunity to improve the situation. Formula 1 teams discussed a proposal that would have allowed drivers to open their rear wings between Turn 1 and Turn 3, a solution that could have helped preserve valuable hybrid energy over one of the fastest sections of the British circuit.

Because the proposal involved allowing movable aerodynamic devices through high-speed corners, the change required unanimous approval from all Formula 1 teams due to the obvious safety implications.

That unanimous agreement never came close to materialising. In fact, five of the 11 teams voted against the proposal, preventing the regulation change from being introduced for the British Grand Prix.

“We were in favour of it, even though it probably would have worked against us because all the Mercedes-powered teams have an advantage when it comes to energy deployment,” Russell explained. “I tested it on the simulator with the wings open and closed through that section, and there’s a significant difference.”

Russell’s comments suggest that Mercedes was willing to support a regulation change despite believing it could reduce one of the power unit manufacturer’s competitive advantages. His revelation also highlights just how important energy deployment has become under the current Formula 1 regulations, with even seemingly minor aerodynamic adjustments capable of influencing battery management and overall race performance.