Is This 'Genius Trick' the Secret Behind McLaren’s Dominance?

McLaren's cooling has been questioned for some time. Already by last year's São Paulo Grand Prix, it was alleged that the Woking-based team injected water into the tyres. CEO Zak Brown also reflected on that in Miami with a bottle having the sticker 'tire water' on it.

In terms of the cooling system, the FIA conducted several investigations into the braking systems and the wheel assemblies, and they have found 'clever' but not illegal solutions.

Entering next season however, the federation announced changes in this regard for next season. Red Bull Racing have also asked the FIA for clarification about what is and is not allowed.

Motorsport.com's analysis report that McLaren mounted a special tank with dry ice at the front of the car. This could better cool the cockpit. The lower part of the chassis then absorbs the heat that is produced by the titanium skid blocks when they rub on the track.

The FIA's regulations state that a similar system must not be located near the fuel hose or tank, as this would lower the fuel's temperature. This in turn increases the engine's power. The rear tyres are also cooled better by the MCL39. Due to a 'cavity' that allows cool air to reach the rear tyres, they could be cooled more effectively and thus last longer, which has been a key strength of the team this campaign.

While many teams were hopeful ahead of the Spanish GP, where a technical directive was introduced which allows the front wings to bend by only 10 millimetres, McLaren claimed another one-two finish in Barcelona.