Red Bull deliver bad news to Verstappen after latest Baku package

Red Bull has brought a five-part upgrade package to Baku for the RB22, with the changes aimed at extracting additional aerodynamic performance while improving the way airflow is managed around the car.

The biggest revision has been made to the floor and diffuser, with both components receiving updated geometries. The changes are intended to generate additional local load while preserving stable airflow through the floor and diffuser area.

The sidepod has also been modified to work alongside the new floor. Red Bull has altered the split line connecting the sidepod to the floor, allowing the bodywork to complement the revised floor geometry and contribute further to local load generation.

Changes have also been made to the cooling louvres, which have been adapted to the updated sidepod design. Despite the revised geometry, Red Bull has retained the same range of cooling options that was available with the previous specification, with the change primarily aimed at integration and reliability.

The RB22's mirrors are another area to receive attention. Their geometry has been revised to improve the conditioning of the airflow downstream of the assembly, while also supporting the additional load generated by the floor changes.

The final modification concerns the Halo, where Red Bull has made a small adjustment to a turning vane on the fairing. The revised element is designed to improve the flow reaching components further downstream, helping to maintain greater flow stability and support aerodynamic load generation.

Speaking at the press conference in Baku, the Frenchman explained that Red Bull has already shifted the vast majority of its resources towards next year's car, making this weekend's package most likely the team's final significant upgrade of the 2026 season.

Mekies stressed, however, that the team will continue working on its current car as it chases its first win of the year and uses the remaining races to gather valuable data ahead of next season.