MCLAREN TO TEST THE MACARENA WING DURING HUNGARIAN GP PRACTICE
McLaren is set to test its new rear wing concept, known as the “Macarena wing”, during the opening practice session of the Hungarian Grand Prix. The component was originally planned to make its debut earlier in the season at the Austrian Grand Prix, but the team delayed its introduction after simulator data did not match the expected performance gains.
The new wing has since undergone further development and McLaren now plans to collect real track data at the Hungaroring. The team will use FP1 to evaluate whether the updated design delivers the expected improvements in aerodynamic efficiency and performance.
As part of the session, Leonardo Fornaroli will take over Oscar Piastri’s McLaren for FP1. The Italian driver, who competes in Formula 2, will complete the mandatory rookie running required by Formula 1 regulations, which asks teams to give young drivers track time during two practice sessions throughout the season.
The Macarena wing received attention earlier in the year because of its unusual design and the way it interacts with airflow at the rear of the car. McLaren has been working on solutions to improve the balance between downforce and drag, an important factor as teams move between circuits with different characteristics.
The Hungaroring provides a different challenge compared to recent races such as Spa-Francorchamps. While Belgium rewards low drag and straight-line speed, Hungary requires high aerodynamic load due to its many slow corners and limited overtaking opportunities. This makes the weekend an important opportunity for McLaren to evaluate a component designed for circuits where downforce is more valuable.
The team enters the Hungarian Grand Prix after a difficult Belgian weekend. McLaren showed strong pace throughout practice and qualifying at Spa, but penalties and race incidents prevented the team from converting that speed into a strong result. The new wing could become an important part of its effort to remain competitive against Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull during the second half of the season.
Further evaluation will determine whether the Macarena wing becomes a regular part of the McLaren package for future races or if the team needs more development before using it in competition.
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