Mercedes F1 reveals prior study of Macarena rear wing concept

Mercedes F1 technical deputy director Simone Resta has revealed that the team studied the ‘Macarena’ inverted rear wing concept over a year before it appeared in competition. While most top teams, including Ferrari, Red Bull, and McLaren, have adopted this aerodynamic innovation, Mercedes chose not to implement it initially.

The Macarena wing differs from traditional DRS by rotating its upper flap more than 200 degrees, acting similarly to an inverted aircraft wing. This configuration significantly reduces aerodynamic drag on straights by causing diffuser stall, offering greater potential gains than standard systems.

Mercedes ultimately decided against the design because the reduction in drag was offset by a loss of downforce when the system is active. Resta noted that the team felt the performance compromise did not justify the necessary investment in development and production, though he suggested the team may reconsider the concept in the future.