Ferrari only completed five laps of the second morning of the second week of Formula 1 pre-season testing in Bahrain, but the SF-26 caused a minor sensation.
Lewis Hamilton was due to take the morning’s running in the Scuderia’s new machine, one that he told media including Motorsport Week yesterday that he felt “connected” to.
The car unfortunately completed just five tours of the Bahrain International Circuit before Hamilton boxed for a so far undisclosed issue.
But, the mere minutes the scarlet challenger was on track, it began a flurry of chatter, as its rear wing’s profile appeared somewhat flipped around.
When the ‘active aero’ system was activated, the rear wing flap turned 180 degrees, immediately signalling a complete change in its original profile.
The innovation never stops in F1
— Formula 1 (@F1) February 19, 2026
Contrast and compare @ScuderiaFerrari's different rear wing systems 👀#F1 #F1Testing pic.twitter.com/kd6HRINJFA
The idea is to reduce drag, and, if successful, could be a key for the team to unlock some further performance from the car.
Ferrari said Hamilton’s truncated running was down to “an issue,” but Motorsport Week understands that further attention that would have naturally been paid to the wing was also a potential contribution.
It is also thought that the upside-down wing will work in conjunction with the car’s diffuser, which is also being experimented with this week.
READ MORE – Formula 1 2026 Bahrain testing – Week 2 Day 2 morning results
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