Nine F1 teams bring aerodynamic upgrades to Belgian Grand Prix

• Photo courtesy of F1

Nine Formula 1 teams have introduced aerodynamic and circuit-specific upgrades ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix at the Spa-Francorchamps circuit, according to the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA).

The upgrades focus largely on improving airflow, reducing drag, and balancing downforce to meet the demands of Spa’s long straights, high-speed corners, and elevation changes.

McLaren brought a Spa-specific rear wing assembly designed to reduce drag during straight-line running and cornering. The team also modified its rear wing endplates to improve airflow and overall aerodynamic performance.

Mercedes revised the front wing endplates of its W17 by increasing the camber of the upper edge. The change is intended to improve front-wing performance and airflow toward the rear of the car. The team also adjusted the rear drum winglets and introduced a lower-downforce rear wing for Spa.

Red Bull returned to a previous rear-wing design but updated its supporting pylons to generate additional aerodynamic load while maintaining stable airflow.

Williams introduced a new floor for the FW48, adding volume to the central section of the diffuser. It also revised the rear brake-duct winglet arrangement and made track-specific adjustments to the floor to balance downforce and drag at the rear.

Racing Bulls updated the VCARB 03 with revised sidepods, a new engine cover, an altered roll-hoop inlet, updated front brake drums, and a new upper rear-wing assembly. The changes are intended to improve airflow and generate downforce more efficiently.

Haas brought a new front wing and matching endplates for the VF-26 to increase local aerodynamic load. It also introduced a circuit-specific beam wing and modified the geometry of the front-corner deflectors.

Audi arrived with a circuit-specific rear-wing assembly and a minor diffuser refinement as part of its continuing aerodynamic development program.

Alpine redesigned the halo fairing of its A526 and added a winglet to improve downstream airflow and produce additional aerodynamic load toward the rear of the car.

Cadillac, meanwhile, fitted the MAC-26 with new front-wing endplates. According to the FIA, the revised geometry improves airflow toward the forward section of the floor and increases aerodynamic load across different ride heights.

The technical packages highlight how Formula 1 teams adapt their cars for individual circuits, with Spa requiring a careful compromise between low drag on its long flat-out sections and sufficient downforce through its fast corners.

The upgrades will be put to the test tonight, with the 44-lap Belgian Grand Prix scheduled to begin at 9 p.m. Philippine time at Spa-Francorchamps. The main race will show whether the aerodynamic changes can deliver gains under full racing conditions.