Mercedes led the Yas Marina post-season test by running a rudimentary active front wing mule, suggesting early aero progress ahead of 2026 rule changes. Punters: consider long-term markets — Mercedes' early development edge could make them favourites in 2026 constructor/driver futures, though immediate 2025 odds remain unchanged.
Mercedes debuts active front wing at Yas Marina test
Mercedes was the first team to run an active front wing during the one-day post-season test at Yas Marina, unleashing a very rudimentary W16 design on track. The move signals an early focus on active aerodynamics as teams prepare for the 2026 regulations that shift away from ground-effect downforce.
What Mercedes ran
The mule car featured a crude moveable front wing with two active flaps linked to an active rear wing system. The morning run used tubing and internal plumbing housed in the nosecone to operate the system on Kimi Antonelli’s adapted car, offering teams a straightforward but functional demonstrator of the concept.
Test format and purpose
All 10 teams are running two cars at the Yas Marina session: one standard 2025-spec racer driven by a young driver, and a specially adapted mule intended to simulate 2026 behaviour. With downforce levels and aerodynamic philosophy changing for 2026, this test also allows Pirelli to collect essential data for its new tyres.
Pirelli’s role and tyre data
Pirelli was permitted to fit the mule cars with active systems so engineers could gather realistic load, wear and heat data under the new aero regimes. That information will feed tyre construction and compound choices for 2026, making the test vital beyond pure aerodynamic development.
Ferrari and other teams
Ferrari is expected to run a more developed active front wing later in the day, while other teams are using bespoke mule configurations to explore different approaches. The varied designs will give a snapshot of which teams are prioritising active aero integration early in the transition.
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Implications for 2026 performance and bettors
Early running with active aero hints at which teams can adapt quickest to the 2026 rule set. Teams that extract useful tyre and balance data now — and iterate fast — could gain an early development advantage next season. For bettors, that suggests value in longer-term futures markets backing teams that show early maturity in active aero testing, while short-term 2025 markets are unlikely to be directly affected.
Mercedes was the first team to run an active front wing during the post-season Abu Dhabi test, the W16 featuring a very rudimentary design.
Planet F1