Explaining DRS to your mates was always a sure-fire way to sound like you knew more about Formula 1 than you actually knew about Formula 1.
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The drag reduction system is one of the few technical aspects of an F1 car that you can actually see working and understand how it affected cars.
Drivers could deploy DRS if they were within a second of the driver ahead to open a flap in the rear wing, decreasing drag and increasing straight-line speed with the intention of generating an overtake.
In 2026, DRS is effectively neutralised. The rear wing flap will still be opened, but its effects will be essentially be cancelled out – and we're on hand to tell you why.
Radio Times brings you the explanation behind a lack of DRS in Formula 1 this season – and what has replaced it.
Why is there no DRS in Formula 1 2026?
DRS is technically still operational in 2026, but the significance of its effects have all-but vanished.
Due to the massive technical overhaul of cars from the 2026 season onwards, the rear wing flap can be opened on any designated straight without the requirement to be close to the car in front.
Gone are the days of deploying DRS within one second of the car in front. It can now be used during every lap.
However, that doesn't mean drivers will lack extra power to get past cars in front. A new 'Overtake Mode' will replace DRS.
Overtake Mode will be unlocked at detection points if cars are within a second of the driver in front. Overtake Mode can be activated with a button to deploy extra electrical energy, increasing speed and providing a boost for overtakes.
Sadly, it may be tougher to track cars using the technology without the visual cue of the rear wing opening up down the straights, but the principles of sticking close to your rivals in order to reel them in with a speed advantage will remain the same.
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Michael Potts is the Sport Editor for Radio Times, covering all of the biggest sporting events across the globe with previews, features, interviews and more. He has worked for Radio Times since 2019 and previously worked on the sport desk at Express.co.uk after starting his career writing features for What Culture. He achieved a first-class degree in Sports Journalism in 2014.
