![\"F1](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/XPB_1411916_HiRes.jpg\")
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tThe new winglet addition to the rear wing of the Mercedes. Image: XPB Images<\/p>\n
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tThe new winglet addition to the rear wing of the Mercedes. Image: XPB Images<\/p>\n
Mercedes, Red Bull and McLaren are among the teams to arrive with distinctive rear-wing winglets as they chase small but valuable gains around the streets of Monte Carlo.<\/p>\n
The changes have been made possible because Monaco is the first event of the season where F1\u2019s new straight mode system will not be used<\/a>.<\/p>\n With no designated straight mode zones at the circuit, teams do not need the usual activation mechanisms that allow the front and rear wings to switch between low-drag and high-downforce configurations.<\/p>\n That has given engineers the opportunity to revise sections of the rear wing and install small winglets in areas that would normally be occupied by the actuator hardware.<\/p>\n Mercedes has attracted particular attention with an elaborate arrangement of winglets replacing much of its conventional actuator assembly, while Red Bull has mounted a pair of smaller wing elements above its existing housing.<\/p>\n McLaren is also understood to be running a similar concept.<\/p>\n Buy tickets to the 2026 betr Darwin Triple Crown. Click here <\/a><\/p>\n The additions are intended to increase downforce, which is especially valuable at Monaco where cornering performance is prioritised over outright speed.<\/p>\n Unlike high-speed circuits where extra drag can be a significant disadvantage, Monaco\u2019s tight and twisty layout rewards grip and stability.<\/p>\n The circuit\u2019s short straights mean teams are prepared to trade aerodynamic efficiency for additional downforce.<\/p>\n The concepts make use of an area of the regulations that offers teams greater freedom around the rear wing mechanism housing.<\/p>\n While the dimensions of the main rear wing are tightly controlled, the space normally reserved for the wing activation system allows alternative solutions when straight mode is not required.<\/p>\n Not every team has chosen to pursue the idea. Ferrari has so far appeared to leave the area unchanged, while other teams have adopted different approaches.<\/p>\n Straight mode was introduced as part of F1\u2019s 2026 regulations, replacing the drag reduction system (DRS) that had been used between 2011 and 2025.<\/p>\n The system allows both the front and rear wings to alter their configuration on designated sections of track to reduce drag and increase top speed.<\/p>\n 2026 F1 Monaco Grand Prix \u2013 Schedule, how to watch, TV times & more<\/a><\/p>\n