NEW DELHI: Ferrari tops the F1 upgrade list ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix as four teams โ Ferrari, McLaren, Red Bull, and Haas โ bring new components to their cars in a bid to maximise performance, both at this circuit and throughout the season.
While McLaren, Red Bull, and Haas have opted for track-specific updates to adapt to Bahrainโs unique demands, Ferrariโs upgrade to the SF-25 is more far-reaching, intended to enhance overall performance and widen the carโs operating window across all circuits.
Ferrariโs All-Round SF-25 Overhaul
Ferrari enters Bahrain with the most comprehensive set of upgrades. In response to findings from pre-season testing and the opening races, theyโve made sweeping modifications aimed at overall consistency and aerodynamic efficiency.
Key changes include:
- Redesigned floor fences and a revised leading edge of the floor tunnel to improve airflow management.
- A new floor edge wing, where โthe swept section at the front has been increased in length and three strakes added, rather than two.โ
- A reworked diffuser, with adjustments to โthe shape of the keel section to better manage flow at the rear and work more effectively at varying ride heights.โ
- A new winglet array has also been added around the rear wingโs inverted Y-lon mounting pillar, optimising rear-end aerodynamics.
These upgrades are designed not just for Bahrain, but to deliver circuit-agnostic performance gains.
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McLarenโs Targeted Brake Duct Update
McLaren arrives in Bahrain with a single upgrade focused on improving airflow efficiency. The team has updated the front brake duct winglets to โimprove the passage of airflow around the assembly and alter its onward journey to more critical areas, such as the front of the floor and sidepods.โ
Red Bull Combines Aerodynamics with Cooling Enhancements
Red Bull has opted for a longer chord flap on the front wing, which allows โmore scope in aerodynamic setup and helps with front-to-rear car balance.โ
Theyโve also introduced a larger cooling louvre arrangement to deal with Bahrainโs high ambient temperatures. This setup is โslightly larger than previous versions, allowing better rejection of heat generated by the power unit and ancillaries.โ
Haas Focuses on Rear Cooling Efficiency
Haas has also responded to Bahrainโs heat by deploying โa more substantial rear cooling offering.โ The team will use a larger rear cannon opening โif the conditions dictate that the power unit requires more cooling assistance.โ
With Ferrari making bold, all-circuit upgrades and rivals fine-tuning their machines for Bahrainโs climate, the Grand Prix weekend is set to be just as fascinating off the track as it is on it.