The Monaco GP will be the first race of the 2026 Formula 1 season not to use the new system called ‘Straight Mode’, which has the main goal of energy efficiency. With the 2026 engines, the activation of the wings together with the battery system prevents the car from losing energy in the middle of the straights and ensures that the power units are not overloaded. The change marks an important exception in the technical regulations introduced this year by the category.
Read more F1: McLaren maintains assessment of new wing after tests in Canada
The novelty was confirmed through the official circuit map released by Formula 1 itself. Unlike other championship stages, the Monte Carlo layout will not have activation zones for the system used to reduce aerodynamic drag on the straights.
Despite the similarities, the system did not directly replace the old DRS. In the previous model, drivers could only open the rear wing when they were close to another car during the race, creating a speed gain to facilitate overtaking.
In the case of the new ‘Straight Mode’, the operation occurs differently and more integrated with the aerodynamic concept of current cars. Even so, Formula 1 decided not to use the feature on the streets of Monte Carlo.
Read more F1: Piastri receives unusual tribute from science
In previous seasons, DRS was used only on Monaco’s main straight. The category never authorized the use of the system inside the circuit tunnel, due to concerns related to driver safety.
Although the ‘straight mode’ has been removed for the Monaco GP, the overtaking mode (‘Overtake Mode’), which grants extra electric power, will remain available during the race. According to the official stage map, the detection point will be before the Rascasse corner.
The system activation will occur at the exit of the corner and continue until before the last corner of the circuit, Anthony Noghes. With this, Formula 1 maintains some assistance for battles on the narrow layout of the Principality, even without fully using the new aerodynamic feature introduced in 2026.
Read more F1: Wolff declares support for engine change to 2027
