F1 News
Red Bull brings specific upgrade to Mexico Grand Prix
Although we have already reached the last three races of the season, several Formula 1 teams have brought upgrades to the Mexican Grand Prix. Most of the upgrades were designed specifically for the circuit in Mexico City.
The Autódromo Hermanos Rodriguez is a very high altitude circuit. Because of the conditions, teams drive with about 20 per cent less downforce. Several teams are coming up with clever solutions to make cooling the car easier in the thin air.
During the first free practice session, Nyck de Vries took a seat in George Russell's Mercedes. The Dutchman tested a slightly different floor edge. In addition, Mercedes' controversial front wing is making its debut in Mexico. Some adjustments were made to avoid further inspection from the FIA, though.
Mercedes ha recortado el flap superior de ala delantera.
— Albert Fabrega (@AlbertFabrega) October 28, 2022
Mercedes has cut the front wing top flap#f1 #MexicoGP pic.twitter.com/6cJ8AQgTmt
Minor upgrade at Red Bull Racing
Red Bull also comes with a small upgrade. The engine cover spine has been widened to create more cooling space under the engine. In the high thin air of Mexico, the cooling demands of the engine are extreme.
McLaren has added extra winglets on the brake ducts to create more downforce. In addition, the team of Lando Norris and Daniel Ricciardo has brought an extensive package for cooling. Comprehensive cooling systems are popular in Mexico, with AlphaTauri also coming with an upgrade. Among other things, the package provides better cooling on the brake ducts and the top of the sidepods.
No upgrades for Ferrari
Aston Martin introduces a slight modification to the profile of the rear deflector. This should improve airflow under the floor. Williams has registered an option to increase the cooling fins on top of the sidepods. The upgrade will only be used when necessary.
Finally, Alfa Romeo is making adjustments to the shape of the floor as part of the aerodynamic package first introduced at Suzuka. The upgrade should provide more downforce and a more stable car. Ferrari, Alpine and Haas are the only three teams that did not bring upgrades to Mexico.
