Red Bull Racing has confirmed Max Verstappen will compete in the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps using an older specification rear wing. This decision follows two high-speed incidents in consecutive race weekends, both attributed to failures of the team’s innovative ‘Macarena’ rear wing design.
Verstappen experienced a significant loss of control during qualifying at the Austrian Grand Prix and again in the race at Silverstone. In Austria, the issue occurred at Turn 9, while at the British Grand Prix, he spun into the gravel at Stowe corner while running in third position.
The four-time World Champion described the recurring problem as ‘super dangerous’ and expressed considerable frustration. He noted that the rear wing failed to close properly, leading to an abrupt loss of downforce.
The ‘Macarena’ wing, introduced by Red Bull at the Miami Grand Prix, is a rotating rear wing designed for active aerodynamics. Its purpose is to reduce drag and enhance straight-line speed by rotating the top flap.
Red Bull’s iteration of this concept rotates approximately 160 degrees. Ferrari also employs a similar rotating wing, though their design is more intricate, featuring dual actuators and a greater rotation angle.
Technical analysis indicates Red Bull’s design, which uses a single central actuator, may be more susceptible to aerodynamic forces hindering its closing mechanism under braking. This contrasts with Ferrari’s more complex, dual-actuator system.
The FIA has engaged in discussions with both Red Bull and Ferrari regarding the safety implications of these active rear wing designs. Regulations mandate that these wings must transition between straight-line and cornering modes within 400 milliseconds.
Red Bull Team Principal Laurent Mekies confirmed the team’s commitment to thoroughly investigating the issue. He apologised to Verstappen for the reliability concerns and stated that all options were being considered to resolve the problem.
Teammate Isack Hadjar will also revert to the older rear wing for the Belgian Grand Prix. While Hadjar did not report rear wing issues, he experienced a front wing problem at Silverstone that impacted his race performance.
The Belgian Grand Prix, the tenth event of the 2026 season, is scheduled from July 17-19 at the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps. This high-speed circuit is known for its demanding nature and significant energy deployment requirements.
The FIA has confirmed that straight-line mode will be available in five zones at Spa, including the approach to Eau Rouge. Verstappen has voiced concerns about the energy-hungry characteristics of the circuit.
Pirelli has allocated the C2, C3, and C4 tyre compounds for the event, acknowledging Spa-Francorchamps as one of the most demanding circuits for tyres.
