McLaren signs off ‘Macarena’ rear wing for future F1 rounds

McLaren approves experimental rear wing

McLaren has given the green light to its experimental rotating rear wing after a promising first track evaluation at the Hungaroring. Team principal Andrea Stella confirmed the concept will return at future Formula 1 events, although the team has yet to specify its debut race.

The design appeared on the McLaren during Friday running in Hungary. It is new to the Papaya team, but the concept has already been explored by Ferrari and Red Bull. Ferrari introduced the full 180-degree rotating wing earlier in the season, earning it the nickname ‘macarena’ wing, before Red Bull developed its own version.

When straight-line mode is activated, the wing fully opens and rotates. That movement reduces downforce and creates a small lift, with Ferrari identifying the potential to improve aerodynamic efficiency and reduce the load placed on the power unit.

McLaren’s decision follows a trackside assessment that Stella described as a complicated project. “It’s been a complicated project, which was no surprise,” he told PlanetF1.com. However, the information collected in Budapest provided enough encouragement for the team to sign off the concept.

“It’s been a positive sign-off of this concept, and we look forward now to introducing this concept at some future events,” Stella confirmed. The approval comes as McLaren continues to build on its strong Hungarian weekend, covered in Stella’s assessment of the team’s respectful battle in Hungary.

Different solutions, same aerodynamic challenge

The McLaren version does not mirror Ferrari’s design. Ferrari’s wing flips backwards, while McLaren’s, like Red Bull’s, rolls forwards. The difference has prompted discussion over whether wind-tunnel characteristics influenced the direction of rotation.

Stella rejected that explanation, arguing that the wind tunnel was not the decisive factor in determining the wing’s aerodynamic behaviour as it returns to its default position. He stressed that other tools can be used, while trackside observation remains essential for a project this sensitive.

“It was important for us to acquire data via trackside because you would have never relied on a wind tunnel only for such a delicate project,” Stella said. The wing’s movement must also be carefully managed because FIA regulations govern actuation times.

McLaren is expected to consider Monza or Baku for the wing’s first race appearance, with their long straights offering a suitable environment for evaluation. Ultimately, the race weekend will determine whether the promising concept delivers the performance step the team is seeking.

McLaren approves experimental rear wing