The FIA has confirmed the implementation of two Straight Mode (SM) zones at the Autódromo José Carlos Pace for this weekend’s Brazilian Grand Prix. This decision outlines the operational parameters for the active aerodynamic systems under the 2026 Formula 1 regulations.
Active aero has replaced the Drag Reduction System (DRS) for the current F1 season. Unlike DRS, which was limited to the rear wing, active aero allows drivers to manually adjust both their front and rear wing flaps.
This system operates in two primary configurations: Straight Mode and Corner Mode. In Straight Mode, the wing flaps open to a low-drag position, flattening the wings to reduce aerodynamic resistance and increase top speed.
Conversely, Corner Mode sees the flaps return to their default ‘closed’ position. This configuration maintains high downforce levels, which are essential for enhancing grip and stability through corners.
The first designated Straight Mode zone at Interlagos is located on the start-finish straight, extending from after Turn 14, through Turn 15, and along the main straight. The second zone is positioned on the Reta Oposta, the long straight between Turns 3 and 4, following the Senna S sequence.
For Overtake Mode, the detection point is situated after the exit of Turn 12, specifically following the Juncão corner. The activation point for this system is located after the left-hand kink of Turn 13, on the uphill section leading towards Turn 14.
Overtake Mode is distinct from Straight Mode, providing an additional 0.5 megajoules of electrical power from the MGU-K to assist with passing. This electrical boost is available to a driver within one second of the car ahead at the detection point.
The number of Straight Mode zones varies across circuits throughout the season, determined by the specific demands and layout of each track. Interlagos features the same number of zones as the updated 2026 Austin circuit.
The 2026 regulations introduced smaller and lighter cars, with a minimum weight reduced to 768kg from 800kg. Overall downforce has been reduced by up to 30%, while drag has fallen by approximately 55%.
These aerodynamic changes aim to promote closer racing by allowing cars to retain about 90% of their downforce when following another vehicle closely. This represents a significant improvement over previous generations of F1 cars.
Mercedes arrives at the Brazilian Grand Prix on the verge of securing the Constructors’ Championship, a title they have not won since 2021. The Brackley-based team holds a 126-point lead over Ferrari.
To clinch the Constructors’ title at Interlagos, Mercedes must outscore Ferrari by three points or more. Mercedes currently leads the standings with 630 points and twelve race victories this season.
Kimi Antonelli secured the 2026 Drivers’ World Championship at the preceding Mexican Grand Prix, finishing third in the race. The 20-year-old Mercedes driver became the youngest F1 World Champion in history.
Antonelli broke Sebastian Vettel’s long-standing record, achieving the title at 20 years and 68 days old. This marks Mercedes’ first Drivers’ Championship since 2020.
The Autódromo José Carlos Pace is a 4.309km circuit featuring 15 corners, run in an anti-clockwise direction with significant elevation changes. It demands strong braking performance, efficient energy deployment, and robust mechanical grip.
The circuit’s layout, which combines two long straights with a technical middle sector, allows teams to implement varied energy deployment strategies. This balance between downforce for corners and speed on straights is crucial under the 2026 power unit regulations.
McLaren won the Brazilian Grand Prix last year, with Lando Norris taking the victory during his title-winning season. Mercedes’ last win at Interlagos was in 2022, secured by George Russell for his maiden F1 triumph.
