F1 will do without active aerodynamics in Monaco:
a one-of-a-kind 2026 Grand Prix
F1 Will Go Without Active Aero in Monaco
The Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix 2026 will once again stand apart on the Formula 1 calendar. While the new 2026 cars now use an active aerodynamics system on every circuit of the championship, the FIA has officially confirmed that it will not be used on the streets of Monaco.
An exceptional decision that once again highlights the unique nature of the Monaco circuit.
A Major Innovation for F1 2026
With the new technical regulations introduced this season, F1 cars now feature front and rear wings capable of changing position depending on the section of the track. This system, called “Straight Mode”, replaces the old DRS used between 2011 and 2025.
The objective is twofold:
- reduce aerodynamic drag on straights;
- improve the energy efficiency of the new hybrid cars.
In practical terms, the wings open on certain parts of the circuit to allow the cars to reach higher speeds before returning to a high-downforce setup in the corners.
But in Monaco, this system will remain completely disabled.
Why the FIA Is Banning Active Aero in Monaco
According to the FIA, the Monaco circuit does not feature any section suitable enough to allow the use of “Straight Mode”.
Several reasons explain this decision:
Straights That Are Too Short
The regulations require an activation zone to last at least three seconds in order to limit constant driver adjustments and ensure a meaningful performance gain. However, the Monaco layout does not include any real straight that meets this requirement.
Even the start-finish straight, previously equipped with DRS, is considered too short for the new system.
Safety Concerns
The FIA has also raised safety concerns, particularly at the tunnel exit where speeds could become excessive with the wings open.
On such a narrow street circuit, with very limited run-off areas, even the slightest instability could have major consequences.
An Additional Mental Load for Drivers
The new aerodynamic system requires more adjustments from drivers. On the streets of Monaco, where concentration is already pushed to the limit at every corner, the FIA believes this could create an additional risk.
A Return to a More “Classic” F1 in Monaco
Without active aerodynamics, teams will have to return to much more traditional fixed setups. Monaco will once again become a race where maximum downforce is the key priority.
This specific feature could even reshuffle the grid. Some teams particularly strong in slow corners could take advantage of this setup to challenge the dominant teams from the start of the season.
The Monaco Grand Prix is therefore shaping up to be a truly unique round in this new technical era of Formula 1.
What About Overtaking?
However, the absence of active aero is unlikely to magically turn Monaco into an overtaking spectacle. On social media and specialist forums, many fans continue to point out that the Monaco layout remains extremely difficult for overtaking regardless of the technical regulations.
Some observers nevertheless believe that cars less dependent on aerodynamic changes could create tighter gaps and more driver mistakes.
The energy-based “overtake mode” will still be available throughout the weekend, even if the famous movable wings remain closed from the first lap to the last.
Monaco Remains a Unique Case in Formula 1
This decision once again confirms that Monaco remains a truly special Grand Prix in the world of Formula 1. Between its historic layout, urban constraints and technical specificities, the Principality regularly forces the governing bodies to adapt certain rules.
In 2026, the Monaco circuit will therefore be the only one on the calendar to race entirely without active aerodynamics.
An exception that should make the weekend even more fascinating for Formula 1 fans around the world.