The 2026 Formula 1 season hasn’t even started, and controversy is already swirling in Bahrain. As teams rolled out for winter testing at the Bahrain International Circuit, sharp-eyed photographers captured something unexpected on the Cadillac entry driven by Sergio “Checo” Pérez: a subtle but striki
Several teams have arrived in Bahrain for the first official F1 winter test in 2026 with an innovative flapping mechanism in the front wheel area, including Cadillac with Sergio Pérez.
Generally, except for active aerodynamics, a Formula 1 car should not have any moving parts on its bodywork. This new feature is particularly striking and has raised numerous concerns. We are getting closer and closer to the start of the season, marked by the Australian Grand Prix.
With the presentations of all the cars and the shakedown in Barcelona now complete, the first day of testing has begun at the Bahrain International Circuit. Although this day is being held behind closed doors, some photographers have been allowed in and security personnel access is more flexible.
Thus, the first images have already arrived. While Audi stands out for very obvious changes compared to Barcelona, it is precisely this flapping by Red Bull, Cadillac, and other teams that raises the most questions. From the photos, it is difficult to determine how many teams have developed this solution.
The flapping is located inside the front wheels, both left and right. Apparently, other Formula 1 teams have adopted this measure, including the Red Bull Racing car driven by Max Verstappen, although it is particularly noticeable in Cadillac.
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Article 3.2 of the technical regulations details what teams can and cannot do with the bodywork. Among other things, it specifies that the use of movable aerodynamic elements on the front and rear wings is prohibited, except when they are part of the configurations for straight sections or corners.
Although the flap does not move on its own, it does move when following the movement of the front wheels, which turn left or right depending on the driver's maneuver.
This has raised questions as to whether it should be considered a “moving component.” During winter testing, teams are allowed to use cars that do not fully comply with the regulations, but the big question is: will we see this innovation again in Australia?
How much will Checo Pérez earn at Cadillac?
Sergio Pérez is back in Formula 1, and now information has emerged about the Mexican driver's salary at Cadillac. According to recent reports, the Jalisco-born driver will earn a significant amount with the American team: "PlanetF1.com has learned that Pérez has signed a multi-year contract with Cadillac.
"Furthermore, it is suggested that he has a base salary of close to $10 million, a contract that is reportedly equivalent to his previous contract with Red Bull. The driver will also reportedly receive bonuses for his results, such as championship positions, podium finishes, and victories, and his income will be increased by a percentage of official merchandise sales.
“This is a huge advantage for Pérez, who was reportedly responsible for more than 60% of Red Bull's online merchandise sales. Cadillac has been interested in signing Pérez based primarily on what he can offer as a driver, rather than the impressive list of sponsors he has boasted in the past,” they said.
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