FIA Bans Ferrari's Exhaust Wing Innovation for 2027 Formula 1 Season

Posted : 27 June 2026

The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile has confirmed that Ferrari's innovative exhaust wing concept will be banned from the 2027 Formula 1 season after revising the sport's technical regulations.

Ferrari introduced the device on its SF-26 during pre-season testing in Bahrain, drawing significant attention across the paddock. The small winglet, mounted above the exhaust tailpipe, was designed to improve airflow towards the rear wing and generate additional rear downforce.

The Italian team successfully exploited a loophole in the 2026 regulations, allowing the design to pass FIA scrutiny. Unlike Ferrari's earlier "Macarena" rear wing concept, which was later adopted by rival teams including Red Bull and McLaren, the exhaust wing required a specially designed rear-end layout that prevented competitors from copying the idea.

Although the FIA confirmed the innovation complies with the current rules and remains legal for the rest of the 2026 season, the governing body has decided to eliminate the concept before teams begin developing their 2027 challengers.

The revised regulations now prohibit any aerodynamic components from occupying the space surrounding the exhaust outlet, effectively making Ferrari's design illegal from next season. The rule change was officially approved during the FIA World Motor Sport Council meeting in Macau.

Ferrari began preparing for the regulation change during Friday practice at the Austrian Grand Prix. Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton ran the exhaust wing during practice, while reserve driver Dino Beganovic completed his session without the device after replacing Charles Leclerc in the opening practice session.

Despite introducing the first upgrade to its power unit under the ADUO development allowance, Ferrari endured a difficult opening day at the Red Bull Ring.

Hamilton finished more than six-tenths of a second behind fastest driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who topped both practice sessions for Mercedes.

Leclerc admitted Ferrari lacked overall grip throughout Friday's running and said tyre performance remained the team's biggest concern. The Monegasque explained that the car had been sliding on all four tyres from the opening laps, making it difficult to extract competitive pace despite encouraging degradation figures over longer runs.

Ferrari will now look to improve overnight before qualifying while continuing to evaluate its latest upgrades as the battle at the front of the Formula 1 championship intensifies.

FIA Bans Ferrari's Exhaust Wing Innovation for 2027 Formula 1 Season

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