Active Aero switched off for 2026 Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix as FIA prioritizes safety
F1 NewsThursday, 04 June 2026 at 12:06
Formula 1's new Active Aero system has been a defining feature of the 2026 season, but drivers will not be able to use it at this weekend's Monaco Grand Prix after the FIA ruled that cars must remain in maximum downforce configuration throughout the event.
The system, introduced with Formula 1's new generation of regulations, allows front and rear wing elements to change position automatically depending on the section of circuit.
On straights, the wings flatten into a low drag configuration known as Straight Mode, increasing top speed. In corners, the wings return to their default position, known as Corner Mode, to maximize downforce and grip.
However, Monaco's unique layout has prompted the FIA to remove Active Aero operation entirely for safety reasons.
FIA locks cars in maximum downforce mode
Rather than switching between wing configurations, teams will run permanently in Corner Mode around the streets of Monte Carlo.
The decision reflects the characteristics of the circuit, which features only a handful of short straights and is dominated by slow speed corners, narrow barriers and constant direction changes.
When determining where Active Aero can be used, the FIA evaluates several factors. These include minimum activation durations, tyre grip margins and speed control into critical corners.
Each activation zone must last longer than 3 seconds to avoid creating unnecessary driver workload for little performance gain. Tyre grip margins are also assessed to ensure the system remains safe in all conditions, from low fuel qualifying runs to long race stints on worn tyres.
The FIA also monitors corner entry speeds. In some cases this season, activation zones have been shortened or removed altogether to prevent excessive speeds before demanding corners.
Monaco's layout means the criteria cannot be met effectively, leading to the decision to disable Active Aero entirely.
Overtake Mode remains available
While Active Aero will be absent, the Overtake Mode system remains active for the Monaco weekend.
Introduced as the replacement for DRS, Overtake Mode provides drivers with additional electrical power when they are running within 1 second of the car ahead at a designated detection point.
The system allows a driver to deploy a higher electrical power profile and maintain increased speed for longer periods when attempting a pass.
At Monaco, the detection point is located between Turns 16 and 17, while the activation point sits between Turns 18 and 19, leading onto the start finish straight.
FIA introduces power deployment tweak
The FIA has also approved a Monaco specific adjustment to power deployment through the introduction of a "Rev 1" engine map.
Under normal conditions, the MGU K provides its maximum 350kW electrical boost until a car reaches 290 km/h. This weekend, however, power delivery will begin tapering off from 200 km/h.
The change has been introduced as an additional safety measure to control speeds around one of Formula 1's most challenging circuits.
With overtaking opportunities already limited and precision more important than outright speed, Monaco will place even greater emphasis on mechanical grip, aerodynamic downforce and driver confidence than any other venue on the calendar.
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