LEGO Technic sends Formula 1's DRS out with a bang

LEGO Technic 42228 McLaren MCL39 features a near brick-built version of DRS, marking what could be its last iteration at this scale.

42228 McLaren MCL39 appears to feature a new LEGO version of the DRS, or drag reduction system. This refers to a feature on Formula 1 cars that allows drivers to flatten the rear wing, reducing drag and allowing them to race even faster.

Seeing as Formula 1 cars won't have DRS in 2026, 42228 McLaren MCL39 might be one of the last times that the LEGO Group recreates the technology, given it's based on the 2025 McLaren Formula 1 car. Unless DRS makes a return or the LEGO Group makes versions of older cars (which hasn't recently been the case for Technic cars at this scale at least), this could be one of the last brick-built DRS at 1:8 scale.

If so, it's going out with a bang, seemingly featuring a new way of adjusting the rear wing. While it could be adjusted manually on 42206 Oracle Red Bull Racing RB20 and 42207 Ferrari SF-24, 42228 McLaren MCL39's DRS can be activated by turning a knob connected to a more complex Technic build.

Judging from the photos, the Technic elements connect the knob to the F-duct at the back of the car. When pushed towards the front of the car, that section of the rear wing flattens out, with DRS activated. When pushed back again, the duct panel flips up, effectively deactivating DRS.

Accessing the feature requires lifting away part of the engine cover to reveal the inner workings, so it'll be tricky to do while the car is moving. Still, it's a neater and more authentic way to recreate the DRS action than previous versions, and a welcome tribute to the departure of the racing technology.