Coulthard Draws Parallel Between Ferrari's Novel Rear Wing and McLaren's Controversial Brake Innovation
David Coulthard has drawn comparisons between Ferrari's innovative rotating rear wing system and McLaren's notorious third brake pedal from F1 history. The Ferrari device, which debuted during pre-season testing this year, operates as part of the team's new Straight Line Mode, replacing the traditional DRS system and generating significant discussion throughout the paddock.
The paddock's focus shifted to Ferrari's latest technological innovation when the Scuderia rolled out its striking rear wing configuration during pre-season testing at the second Bahrain session. The unconventional design, which forms the centerpiece of the team's new Straight Line Mode system replacing the familiar DRS mechanism, immediately captured the attention of observers—including seasoned former driver David Coulthard.
The distinctive hardware has prompted considerable intrigue among F1 insiders, with Coulthard drawing an intriguing historical comparison. The veteran analyst believes the rotating rear wing shares conceptual similarities to McLaren's infamous third brake pedal, a piece of equipment that became the subject of considerable controversy during its time in the sport before ultimately facing a ban.
Ferrari's implementation of this new technology marks a significant departure from conventional rear wing operation, positioning the Italian team as willing innovators within the technical regulations. The device's functionality within the Straight Line Mode framework suggests a calculated approach to optimizing performance within the established regulatory framework, though the parallels Coulthard has identified suggest the sport's regulatory bodies will be watching this development closely as the season progresses.
Original source
Motorsport.com
Related Regulations
Hover over badges for quick summaries, or scroll down for full official text and simplified explanations.
Full Regulation Text
Article 3.10
DRS System
Chapter: Chapter III - Bodywork
In Simple Terms
DRS lets the rear wing flap open on straights to reduce drag and boost top speed by 10-15 km/h. It's driver-activated via a button but only works in designated zones and when close to another car. The system must fail-safe to the closed position if there's any malfunction.
- Rear wing flap opens to reduce drag
- Provides 10-15 km/h speed advantage
- Must fail-safe to closed position
- Single actuation method only
Official FIA Text
The rear wing is permitted to have one adjustable bodywork element for the purpose of improving overtaking opportunities. This adjustable element may only move in a prescribed manner within defined limits and must return to its closed position within a specified time.
Article 33.1
DRS Activation
Chapter: Chapter III - DRS
In Simple Terms
DRS (Drag Reduction System) opens the rear wing for a speed boost on straights. You can only use it in marked zones AND only if you're within 1 second of the car ahead at the detection point. It's disabled at race start and in wet conditions for safety.
- Only usable in designated zones
- Must be within 1 second of car ahead
- Disabled at race start initially
- Can be disabled in wet conditions
Official FIA Text
DRS may only be used in designated DRS zones. A driver may only activate DRS when he is within one second of the car ahead at the detection point. DRS will be disabled at the start of the race until the Race Director determines conditions are safe for its use.
Article C1.6
New systems or technologies
Chapter: ARTICLE C1: GENERAL PRINCIPLES
In Simple Terms
If a team invents a clever new system or technology that isn't explicitly mentioned in the rulebook but the FIA approves it, they can only use it for the rest of that season. Once the season ends, that innovation is no longer allowed unless it becomes an official part of the regulations.
- New technologies must be approved by the FIA before use
- Approved innovations are only permitted until the end of the season in which they're introduced
- Teams cannot carry over one-season innovations to the next season automatically
- The regulation prevents any team from gaining a permanent advantage from a loophole
Official FIA Text
Any new system, procedure or technology not specifically covered by these Technical Regulations, but which is deemed permissible by the FIA, will only be admitted until the end of the Championship during which it is introduced.
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