The era of “leg wings” could be cut short, with reports emerging that MotoGP is considering outlawing the seat-unit aerodynamic devices as early as the 2026 season.
Pioneered by Aprilia on the RS-GP and subsequently adopted by Honda, these winglets positioned behind the rider’s calves have become the latest battleground in MotoGP’s aero war. However, their days appear numbered.
According to a report by Motor Sport magazine, a proposal has been submitted to the Grand Prix Commission to ban these devices specifically on safety grounds.
This classification is crucial. By framing the ban as a safety issue rather than a technical performance adjustment, the rule change can be pushed through without requiring unanimous agreement from the five manufacturers (MSMA)—a mechanism designed to bypass political deadlocks when rider safety is at stake. While no specific injuries have been publicly linked to the devices, the proposal seeks to preempt potential risks.
The Technical Details The proposed regulation seeks to introduce a strict new “bodywork exclusion zone.” This prohibitively tapered area would commence 800mm forward of the rear tyre with a width of 300mm, extending back to the current maximum limit of 450mm.
The Timing Dilemma While the proposal suggests an immediate ban, the timing presents a logistical challenge. With the Valencia test already concluded, the “2026 season” is technically underway. Furthermore, with a comprehensive overhaul of aerodynamic regulations already ratified for the 850cc era in 2027, there is speculation that this specific ban might be deferred to align with the wider regulatory reset in two years’ time.
