# Mercedes F1 aerodynamic technology decisions

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/mercedes-f1-aerodynamic-technology-decisions
> Updated: 2026-10-17T13:29:00.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 2.

Mercedes Deputy Technical Director Simone Resta revealed that the team investigated the ‘Macarena’ inverted rear wing concept over a year before it was adopted by competitors such as Ferrari, Red Bull, and McLaren. 

The technology, which allows a wing to rotate its upper flap more than 200 degrees to act like an inverted aircraft wing, aims to significantly reduce aerodynamic drag by causing diffuser stall. However, Mercedes decided against implementing the system because the reduction in drag was offset by a significant loss of downforce when active. 

Resta stated that the team concluded the performance benefits did not justify the required investment in development and manufacturing, though Mercedes remains open to reconsidering the technology in the future.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-17: Mercedes F1 reveals prior study of Macarena rear wing concept

Mercedes F1 revealed they studied the ‘Macarena’ rear wing concept over a year ago but declined to use it due to the trade-off between drag reduction and downforce loss.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mercedes-f1-reveals-prior-study-of-macarena-rear-wing-concept

### 2026-10-17: Mercedes explains decision not to adopt active rear wing technology

Mercedes Deputy Technical Director Simone Resta revealed the team studied active rear wing technology a year ago but declined to use it due to the high cost and downforce trade-offs.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mercedes-explains-decision-not-to-adopt-active-rear-wing-technology

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Cite as: Mercedes F1 aerodynamic technology decisions. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/mercedes-f1-aerodynamic-technology-decisions