What the rear wing does
The rear wing is the second most important downforce-generating component on an F1 car (after the floor/diffuser). It works by deflecting the airflow upward, which creates a downward force on the rear of the car. This downforce pushes the rear tyres onto the track, increasing grip through corners.
However, the rear wing also creates drag — the resistance that slows the car on straights. The challenge for aerodynamicists is to find the optimal balance between downforce and drag for each circuit.
The evolution of rear wing design
Rear wing design has changed dramatically over the decades. In the 1960s, rear wings were simple, flat plates mounted high above the car. They were so dangerous that they were banned after several accidents.
By the 2000s, rear wings had become incredibly complex, with multiple elements, endplates, and cascades designed to manage every aspect of the airflow. The 2009 regulation changes simplified rear wings significantly, making them wider and less complex.
The 2011 introduction of DRS (Drag Reduction System) added a new dimension to rear wing design. The DRS flap, when opened, reduces the wing's angle of attack, significantly reducing drag and increasing straight-line speed.
DRS and its impact
DRS was introduced to increase overtaking opportunities. When a driver is within one second of the car ahead at a designated detection point, they can open the DRS flap on the rear wing, reducing drag and gaining a speed advantage on the straight.
DRS has been both praised and criticized. It has undoubtedly increased overtaking, but some argue that it has made overtaking too easy and too predictable.
The 2026 challenge
In the 2026 era, DRS has been replaced by Active Aero, which allows drivers to adjust both front and rear wing elements. The rear wing's role has evolved from a static downforce generator to a dynamic component that can change configuration during a race.