A TCFormula 2

F2 | Tech Analysis: Why does the rear wing have this shape?

di Francesco Zazzera0

The Monza Formula 1 weekend is not only about Ferrari, Red Bull and Mercedes. Today also saw the unveiling of the new F2, which features a particular shape for the rear wing.

The cadet category that precedes F1 officially presented the new generation of cars that drivers will use from 2024. The shapes of the new single-seater take inspiration from current F1 cars that take advantage of the ground effect philosophy. During the presentation, the geometry of the rear wing element caused quite a stir. Let’s see together why the rear wing of the new F2 has this particular shape.

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Is it a Superformula or F2?

At first glance, the new geometry of the rear wing is clearly reminiscent of that used on the Superformula cars used in Japan. The new rear appendage appears as a single element, with endplates and profiles joined as on the current F1 cars. The most obvious differences, however, appear in the two horizontally positioned wing elements.

F2 rear wing shape

About the main profile, it has a rather classic geometry, similar to those seen on F1 cars. In addition, the DRS mechanism is anchored on this component. Moving on to the movable flap, we can see a decidedly elaborate shape. Analysing it, we can see that it has a variable length chord, shorter at the ends and longer in the middle. Furthermore, we can see that it is equipped with a full-length nolder to prevent the fluid separation from the wing surface.

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Why is the rear wing shaped like this?

F2 reat wing shape
here is how the new F2 wing will open – Credits: Federico Palmioli for F1inGenerale
During the press conference presentation, the engineers answered some of the questions raised by journalists, including F1inGenerale. One of the most popular was about its shape, with the engineers replying bluntly ‘it will serve to make the DRS as efficient as possible’. Indeed, such a large surface area, moreover almost perpendicular to the direction of the fluid, generates a considerable drag effect when the DRS is closed. This effect, however, is greatly attenuated when the mobile wing is activated and the flap is in a horizontal position, where the impact surface with the air is significantly reduced.

In conclusion, we can assume that this new F2 will allow much more action on the track. We also think that the open-wing gain will be important considering the speeds involved.

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Studente di ingegneria meccanica, classe 98, appassionato di F1 e di tutto il motorsport in generale. Aspiro a lavorare nel mondo del motori, nello specifico F1, per coronare un sogno nato dalla passione trasmessa da mio nonno.