2026 Formula One Front Wing Design

In this project I showcase my regulation analysis and implementation skills, the Design methodology and aerodynamic expertise in the development of a front wing for the 2026 Formula One season.

CAD Design Philosophy

This front wing design follows the workflow developed in the Design Methodology section using the Generative Shape Design toolbox in 3DExperience.

Front wing overview
Front wing CAD design

The wing is built from a parametrised wireframe controlling all sections and guide lines for fast iteration maintaining high surface quality.

Airfoil detail
Airfoil Section Design

Customizable airfoil profile with precise control over camber and exit angles.

Nose detail
Nose design

The nose section was designed using various sections perpendicular to the X axis following a Methodologhy applicable to bodywork design.

Surface detail
Robust design

The design was carried out using intersections, projections and Extremums while applying trimming and rollover techniques for a robust, customizable design.

Airfoil Section Design
Surface guide lines

Surfaces are created using tangencies and 3D guidelines created by the combination of two splines using the tool combine. The Guidelines used in the flaps are linked to each other to maintain an uniform gap and overlap as defined in the parameters.

Aerodynamic analysis

Baseline design with an inwash Philosophy to make the most out of the new regulations.

Baseline wing
Baseline Wing

A conservative flap setting with moderate camber for mid downforce scenarios.

High-Downforce variant
Multi-element wing

Larger flap deflection and increased camber in flap 1 and 2 to take advantaje of multi-element wing reenergization of the flow enabling higher AoA without separation of flow.

Low-Drag variant
Inwash Endplate

The endplate and strake are designed not only to increase the efficiency of the wing reducing wingtip downwash and seal the wheel turbulent structures from the downstream aerodynamic elements.

Surface detail
Surface Detail

High quality surface design with controlled curvature enabling optimal aerodynamic performance in future iterations after CFD analysis and wind tunnel testing.

Regulation Highlights

The analysis of the Formula One technical regulations (Issue 14) led to the creation of the reference volumes and surfaces used in the design process.

Reference volumes
Regulation diagram

Illustration showing the Reference volumes designed using 3DExperience.

Dimensions & Placement
  • Established the main dimensions and planes following the technical regulation.
  • Height limits above the reference plane and forward/aft bounds for the front wing elements.
Elements & Radii Rules
  • Leading/trailing edge definitions for manufacturing and wind tunnel model creation.
  • Followed the Radii limitations on all elements with the use of the porcupine analysis tool.
Attachments & Assembly
  • Endplate wings and attachments are assembled following the trimming rules.
  • Fillets between each part are designed according to the regulations.