Red Bull unveiled a comprehensive set of aerodynamic and mechanical tweaks for the Austrian Grand Prix, aiming to narrow the performance gap to the season’s top teams.
Sidepod realignment and floor tweaks
The sidepod inlet was reshaped to mirror earlier front-end changes, ensuring optimal radiator air flow without shifting the centre of mass. New engine‑cover bodywork was fabricated to sit snugly over the revised floor, while the cooling louvres were adjusted for the high temperatures expected in Austria.
Modifications to the forward floor—especially the area beneath the chassis bulkhead and the outer boards behind the front wheels—were designed to raise local load and improve downstream airflow into the sidepod and beyond. These adjustments complement the updated rear‑suspension fairings, which now profiled to match the improved airflow patterns.
Rear‑wing and exhaust optimisation
Red Bull introduced new pylons for the rear wing to dampen sensitivity where the wing meets its underside. The exhaust outlet was re‑worked to better utilise the support‑bracket winglet, thereby generating additional downforce. Combined, these changes target a stronger rear grip and more balanced aerodynamics.
Grid‑wide updates from rivals
McLaren is testing its own iteration of the so‑called “Macarena” wing, though the team is not planning to deploy the version during the race. Mercedes has tweaked front‑suspension leg fairings to raise airflow conditioning. Ferrari added a front‑wing endplate, a floor board and a revised mirror‑stay, restricted to free practice. Audi introduced a new front‑wing endplate and brake‑duct deflectors, while Cadillac rolled out sidepods with a new inlet profile, diffuser changes and a revised floor leading edge, expecting a few tenths of a second gain.
Max Verstappen acknowledged the necessity of these upgrades, stating that the team must shed the performance deficit witnessed early in the season to finish strong at the end of the calendar.
With sophisticated ground‑effect work and meticulous aero revisions, Red Bull’s Austrian updates signal a focused push to recapture the form that places the team in contention for top‑four finishes.
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