FIA confirms five straight mode zones at Spa

The FIA has confirmed that drivers will have access to five straight mode activation zones during the Belgian Grand Prix weekend, making Spa-Francorchamps one of the biggest tests yet for Formula 1's 2026 power units.

With its long full-throttle sections and relatively few heavy braking zones to recover energy, the Belgian circuit is widely regarded as one of the toughest venues on the calendar for battery management. As a result, the phenomenon known as super clipping is expected to be a key talking point once again.

Concerns over super clipping first dominated discussions ahead of the British Grand Prix, where several drivers warned that the issue could have a significant impact on racing. While the effect ultimately proved less dramatic than feared, Spa's unique layout is expected to place even greater demands on the hybrid systems despite the FIA's recent measures designed to reduce its influence.

Straight mode allows both the front and rear wings to close simultaneously, reducing aerodynamic drag and helping maximise top speed on the circuit's lengthy straights.

Perhaps the most eye-catching activation point comes immediately after La Source, where drivers will be able to deploy straight mode on the downhill run towards Eau Rouge before the wings automatically return to their normal position ahead of the iconic high-speed sequence.

The system can then be activated again on the climb towards Raidillon and along the Kemmel Straight before Les Combes. Two further opportunities come on the exit of Stavelot towards Blanchimont and on the run to the Bus Stop chicane, completing a total of five straight mode zones around one of Formula 1's fastest and most demanding circuits.