El alerón “Macarena”
A dangerous benefit
It is a rear wing that adjusts its position while the car is in motion, utilizing the movement of its elements to achieve different aerodynamic characteristics. Ferrari and Red Bull will use it for the remainder of the season.
Its function is to provide an aerodynamic advantage. At certain times, the wing can shift to a position that reduces drag, allowing the car to reach higher speeds, while in other situations, it reverts to a configuration better suited for generating downforce. It is also known as a “rotating wing” because, in Ferrari’s case, it can rotate up to 270 degrees—moving in the opposite direction to the traditional mechanism derived from the now-defunct DRS. The Italian team unveiled its version during the 2026 pre-season testing, catching its rivals by surprise.
Ferrari and Red Bull used their respective systems normally, but two consecutive accidents involving Max Verstappen (in Austria and Silverstone) drew attention to how the system operates; consequently, the FIA conducted a safety analysis using FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis) to examine potential failures and their consequences, aiming to determine whether the hydraulic system is failing, the wing is not returning to its normal position, or the issue lies in the time it takes to close.
In this regard, the FIA considers the general concept of the rotating wing or “Macarena” wing to be safe and permissible for continued use, meaning that Ferrari, Red Bull, and teams developing their own versions do not need to abandon the idea. McLaren has also been testing its own version of the wing since the Austrian Grand Prix, aiming to improve performance through this component.
En este sentido, la FIA considera que el concepto general del alerón rotatorio o macarena es seguro y puede seguir utilizándose, lo que significa que Ferrari, Red Bull y los equipos que están desarrollando sus propias versiones, no tienen que abandonar esta idea. McLaren también está probando su versión del alerón desde Austria, buscando, la mejora de sus prestaciones con este elemento.
