Ferrari is using a clever foot-activated switch to trigger the drag-shedding 'DRS' system in 2012, it has emerged.

Germany's Auto Motor und Sport said drivers for most other teams trigger the rear wing flap with a button on the steering wheel.

But renowned F1 technical illustrator Giorgio Piola has learned that, when Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa are between corners and therefore not braking, their left foots can trigger 'DRS' with a switch to the left of the brake pedal.

When they want to stop the car, their left foot is therefore automatically taken off the 'DRS' pedal - therefore returning the wing to its normal position - when they apply the brake.