T-wing

A T-wing is a small aerodynamic device that was mounted on Formula 1 cars, consisting of a thin horizontal wing supported by a vertical post to form a "T" shape, designed to generate extra downforce and improve airflow to the car's rear wing.

In Formula 1 racing, teams constantly search for ways to make their cars faster through the corners. One way to achieve this is by creating downforce, which is an aerodynamic force that pushes the car down onto the track. The harder a car is pushed into the track, the more grip the tires have, allowing drivers to take corners at higher speeds without sliding off.

The T-wing emerged as a creative solution during the 2017 Formula 1 season when teams discovered a loophole in the technical regulations. These devices were positioned on the car's bodywork, sitting above and ahead of the main rear wing. The design was simple but effective: a horizontal wing element perched on top of a vertical support, creating the distinctive "T" shape that gave the component its name.

The T-wing served two important functions. First, it generated additional downforce on its own, helping to press the car more firmly into the track surface. Second, and perhaps more importantly, it helped manage the turbulent, chaotic air flowing over and around the car. By smoothing out this airflow before it reached the main rear wing, the T-wing allowed that larger wing to work more efficiently.

The regulations limited T-wings to a maximum width of 750 millimeters (about 30 inches) and restricted them to a narrow zone just 50 millimeters in front of the rear wing. Despite these size constraints, the T-wing's shape gave it a very high aspect ratio, meaning it was wide but not very deep from front to back. This design provided a good amount of downforce without blocking too much air or creating excessive drag.

While T-wings were technically legal under the 2017 rules, they proved controversial. The devices were prone to vibrating at high speeds, and there were concerns about them breaking off and potentially causing dangerous situations on track. Additionally, many fans and observers felt they looked awkward and detracted from the appearance of the cars.

As a result of these safety and aesthetic concerns, Formula 1's governing body banned T-wings for the 2018 season. The regulations were updated to close the loophole that had allowed teams to use them in the first place. Today, T-wings remain a brief but memorable chapter in Formula 1's ongoing aerodynamic development story, representing both the ingenuity of racing teams and the need for regulations to balance performance with safety.