McLaren will unveil its rotating rear‑wing device, the H‑Wing, during this weekend’s Italian Grand Prix at Monza.
System Introduction and Background
The British outfit has spent the off‑season refining a 180‑degree pivoting wing aimed at slashing drag on high‑speed circuits. After a prototype setback at the Austrian GP, the H‑Wing returned in Hungary FP1 with a revised design that should reduce aerodynamic drag once the car switches to straight mode.
Its centre‑line actuator aligns with the letter H of Etihad’s logo, echoing McLaren’s historical use of branding to signal new aerodynamic concepts, such as the 2010 F‑duct named for Vodafone. The device’s name, however, is not a cultural reference but a visual nod to the sponsor’s lettering.
Performance Goals and Strategy
Neil Houldey, McLaren’s technical director, said the low‑drag rear‑wing specification will accompany the H‑Wing at Monza while the team evaluates the setup before finalising the qualifying package. “We still have performance to unlock from the MCL40, both through existing materials and subsequent upgrades,” he added.
The H‑Wing’s purpose is to lower drag along Monza’s straights while maintaining sufficient cornering aid. The test at Hungary suggested the concept works on speed circuits, and Monza’s layout offers the first real‑world validation opportunity. McLaren plans to carry both cars into the Spanish GP next week with the same device.
Livery Spot‑light
Simultaneously, the team will showcase a refreshed livery at Monza and in Spain to highlight its partnership with cryptocurrency firm OKX. The updated paint job will feature prominent OKX graphics alongside the familiar Etihad backdrop.
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