Fernando Alonso’s Aston Martin AMR26 experienced a significant active aerodynamics malfunction during Sprint qualifying for the Dutch Grand Prix at Circuit Zandvoort. The issue, involving the car’s Straight Line Mode (SLM) system, resulted in a substantial performance deficit for the two-time world champion.
Alonso’s rear wing failed to transition into its low-drag configuration on the straights, remaining instead in the high-downforce ‘corner mode’. This malfunction led to increased aerodynamic drag, severely impacting the car’s top speed.
Reports indicate a speed reduction of approximately 20 km/h into Turn 1 and a lap time deficit of around 2.3 seconds. The problem contributed to Alonso qualifying last among the 22 drivers for the Sprint race.
The 2026 Formula 1 regulations introduced full-time active aerodynamics, allowing both front and rear wings to dynamically adjust their angle. Straight Line Mode flattens the wings to reduce drag on straights, while Corner Mode maintains downforce for grip.
This system, which effectively replaces the Drag Reduction System (DRS), was implemented in response to the new 2026 power units, which feature an approximately 50:50 split between internal combustion and electrical power. Conventional fixed wings would generate excessive drag with these power units.
Pirelli, the official tyre supplier, developed its 2026 compounds and constructions with these dynamic aerodynamic loads in mind. The tyre construction was finalised on September 1, 2025, and compounds homologated on December 15, 2025, based on extensive simulation and mule car testing.
The incident at Zandvoort provided Pirelli with critical real-world data regarding the impact of an SLM failure on car performance and tyre loads. Pirelli’s chief engineer, Simone Berra, has classified any SLM malfunction as ‘very critical’.
Berra explained that if the SLM system does not activate, the rear wing remains in a high-downforce state at high speeds, subjecting the rear axle to loads outside the tyre’s intended operating window.
‘Honestly, we are investigating this because it is interesting for us to collect this kind of data, as it does not happen often,’ Berra stated. ‘We want to understand the difference between the simulations we have received and the real data we have.’
Pirelli is now open to re-engaging in discussions with Formula 1 teams and the FIA concerning the potential reintroduction of the black-orange ‘meatball flag’ for active aerodynamics failures.
This technical flag would mandate a driver to pit for repairs or retirement if an active aero system fails during a Grand Prix, addressing a significant safety concern.
Discussions on this matter were previously held earlier in the current season but were subsequently shelved. Any potential implementation of such a rule is now being considered for the 2027 season.
Beyond active aerodynamics, the 2026 regulations represent a comprehensive overhaul, featuring lighter cars with a minimum weight of 768 kg and narrower dimensions. The MGU-H component has also been removed from the power units to simplify their architecture.
Following the resolution of the SLM issue, Alonso started the Sprint race from the pit lane after Aston Martin made necessary setup changes under parc fermé regulations. He later secured Aston Martin’s first points of the 2026 season with a ninth-place finish in the main Grand Prix, utilizing an unplanned one-stop strategy.
