Verstappen vs McLaren: Red Bull reveal big update

The FIA has published its official list of car updates ahead of the Austrian Grand Prix, showing how teams are adapting to the unique demands of the Red Bull Ring. From aerodynamic refinements to cooling-focused changes, here's a quick rundown of the key upgrades being rolled out this weekend.

Upgrades from Ferrari

Ferrari has introduced a comprehensive floor upgrade package for the Austrian Grand Prix aimed at improving flow conditioning and aerodynamic performance. The updates include modified floor fences, a reshaped floor body with expanded tunnels, a shorter and re-cambered floor edge, and a redesigned diffuser.

The FIA document describing Red Bull's upgrades

These changes work together to enhance vorticity control and optimise downforce distribution, resulting in an overall load gain across the car’s operating range.

Upgrades from Red Bull

Red Bull is only bringing one update to the home race of the Austrian team. Verstappen and Yuki Tsunoda will have access to a new floor design. This includes an additional wing that directs more airflow towards the rear tires.

The FIA document describing Red Bull's upgrades

The image below highlights which part of the RB21 has been updated prior to the race weekend. The improved airflow over the rear of the floor should enhance the car's stability.

The upgrade to the floor of the RB21

Upgrades from McLaren 

McLaren has introduced several updates focused on improving flow conditioning and mechanical setup. The team revised the front suspension to enhance aerodynamic efficiency, while also modifying the front corner to better exploit those improvements.

The FIA document describing McLaren's upgrades

At the rear, updated suspension geometry necessitated changes to the aerodynamic surfaces to preserve clearances and boost overall aerodynamic performance.

Upgrades from Mercedes

Mercedes have introduced circuit-specific cooling updates for the Austrian Grand Prix. These include enlarged brake duct inlets and exits at the front to manage the circuit’s high brake demands. .

The FIA document describing Mercedes's upgrades

At the rear, a larger bodywork exit has been added to increase airflow through the sidepod radiator, improving cooling performance in response to the track's thermal challenges

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