Racing Bulls driver Arvid Lindblad has received the team’s latest upgrade package for the Belgian Grand Prix. Team Principal Alan Permane confirmed the decision process behind allocating the new components to only one car. The upgrades were implemented on Lindblad’s car for the Spa-Francorchamps event.
The comprehensive upgrade package includes a reprofiled sidepod, a smaller roll hoop, a revised brake drum designed for improved airflow, and a higher-load rear wing. These modifications aim to enhance the car’s overall performance and downforce.
Permane explained that applying the full upgrade to both Racing Bulls cars was not feasible due to time constraints. Specifically, the chassis modification required to accommodate the smaller roll hoop could not be completed for both machines between the British Grand Prix and the Belgian Grand Prix.
The team principal discussed the situation with both Lindblad and Liam Lawson during the Austrian Grand Prix weekend. Permane initially proposed delaying the upgrade for both cars until the Hungarian Grand Prix to ensure fairness.
This suggestion was met with resistance from the drivers. Consequently, an agreement was reached to determine the upgrade recipient based on qualifying performance at the preceding British Grand Prix.
Arvid Lindblad qualified ahead of Liam Lawson at Silverstone. This result meant Lindblad’s car was fitted with the new components for the Belgian Grand Prix, which takes place on July 19.
Liam Lawson’s car is scheduled to receive the identical upgrade package for the subsequent race in Budapest. Permane also indicated that Lawson would be given priority for any future single-car upgrades later in the season.
Racing Bulls arrives at Spa-Francorchamps having secured four consecutive double points finishes. The team aims to maintain this momentum and challenge Alpine for the ‘best of the rest’ position in the Constructors’ Championship standings.
