Mercedes shelves Macarena wing for 2026

Mercedes has decided not to pursue the 'Macarena' rear wing for the 2026 season, focusing instead on upgrades for the 2027 car. This decision comes as competitors like Ferrari and Red Bull have developed their own versions, while McLaren is set to race its version soon. Mercedes has opted for a more conservative development strategy, which has allowed them to maintain performance without the new wing technology.

Deputy team principal Bradley Lord highlighted the importance of timing in upgrades, stating that many smaller changes have been implemented without being officially listed. Meanwhile, McLaren's Andrea Stella noted the challenges faced in developing their Macarena system, emphasizing the need for extensive track testing to ensure the car's aerodynamic performance is optimized.