Z-mode

How it works when "Z-mode" is activated...

In ‘Z-mode’ the front and rear wings are closed and the car generates maximum downforce for cornering.

Z-mode Formula1
Max control Z-mode

Explained...

Sophisticated active aerodynamics

Formula 1 focus for 2026 aerodynamically is to reduce the base level of drag of the car, while trying to maintain a good level of downforce in the corners. With more powerful and sophisticated active aerodynamics, F1-drivers will be able to lower their front wings as well as their rear wings from 2026. 

The cars will have two states: ‘Z-mode’ and ‘X-mode’... In Z-mode the front and rear wings are closed and the car generates maximum downforce to get through braking and around the corner. In X-mode the flaps at the front and rear are opened to reduce drag and increase speed when exiting a corner or on a straight .

When activated?

Drivers will be able to switch between Z-mode and X-mode, regardless of how close they are to another car. They will only be allowed to use the low-downforce X-mode at certain points on the track, and are likely to be forbidden from activating it in wet conditions.

By allowing drivers to switch between the two modes, F1 expects to be able to make the best use of its new power units.

Z-mode

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