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FIA adds four Slipstream Mode zones for 2026 Spanish Grand Prix

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 9, 2026, 3:00 PM

Last updated Jun 9, 2026

FIA adds four Slipstream Mode zones for 2026 Spanish Grand Prix

Summary

The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya will feature four designated Slipstream Mode (SM) zones for the 2026 season. This change, driven by the new FIA regulations on active aerodynamics and power units, aims to enhance overtaking opportunities. The zones include the traditional main straight and back straight, along with two new areas between Turns 3-4 and Turns 5-6. These additions may significantly alter race dynamics, allowing for increased tactical maneuvering and challenges for defending drivers. The alterations aim to shift Barcelona's reputation from a processional track to one encouraging more overtaking and aggressive racing strategies.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Barcelona introduces four SM zones for the 2026 season.
•Zones aim to increase opportunities for overtaking during races.
•New areas include sections between Turns 3-4 and 5-6.
•Regulation changes focus on active aerodynamics and power units.
•The layout change seeks to reduce procession-like racing.

Latest Updates

3:00 PMYahoo Sports — 2026 Spanish Grand Prix Track Guide: 4 New SM Zones Explained

What they're saying

"
For years, the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya has been the ultimate test of aerodynamic efficiency, but it has notoriously suffered from a lack of on-track overtaking. Overtaking was historically confined to two distinct DRS zones: the massive main straight and the…
— Yahoo Sports

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