As evidenced last weekend, the differences separating the top teams in F1 are smaller than ever. Two tenths can be the difference between 1st and 7th place, especially at a shorter circuit like Austria. Because of this, even relatively small updates can make a quick impact. Of the four front-running teams, only McLaren have upgrades this weekend.
At the Spanish GP, it was Ferrari and Red Bull who brought sizable upgrade packages. Both teams continued with the development direction established in the opening phase of the season.
These modifications were met with mixed success. The Maranello-based outfit struggled to optimise their improvements, although they insist the data from Barcelona correlates well with the simulator.
Meanwhile, Red Bull – at least in the hands of Max Verstappen – managed to take another victory with their latest updates.
However, McLaren was again the fastest car – as they have been over the last three weekends. The MCL38 is performing at a very high level. Perhaps more importantly, the team’s rate of development has been very impressive, with upgrades consistently delivering the desired impact.
Andrea Stella, Team Principal, McLaren
Updates for McLaren at the Austrian GP
Two upgrades will arrive at the MCL38 this weekend – a new front wing and a new front suspension. These components are designed to produce more aerodynamic load and improve airflow. Whilst nothing transformational, these improvements should unlock more incremental lap time.
Considering that McLaren traditionally performs well in Austria, these upgrades are another reason to be enthusiastic. Moreover, since the updates are relatively minor, they should not impact the team’s set-up work in Free Practice.
Set-up optimisation will be a challenge across the field, especially given the competitiveness at the front.
Of course, the development war in F1 is constantly in flux. Larger upgrades are expected in Silverstone, meaning the pecking order could change again in a week.
Regardless, McLaren enters this weekend with the pressure of being the favourites – albeit by a relatively slender margin.
Still, Andrea Stella’s personnel are tasked with proving they can match Red Bull’s operational efficiency.
