McLaren and Williams have introduced significant upgrade packages, with details emerging from FIA submissions following the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Reigning world champions McLaren brought eight upgrades to the Baku race, with seven focused on performance. The team revised the sidepod inlet shape, the engine cover, the floor edge, the diffuser, the rear suspension, and the rear wing.
These six new parts are designed to work in conjunction, improving the flow conditioning of the MCL40. The rear wing modification specifically altered the Straight Line Mode flap position. The FIA submission explained this was ‘modified to deploy the flap to an alternative position in Straight Line Mode, resulting in a larger reduction in drag.’
McLaren is currently pursuing Ferrari for second place in the Constructors’ Championship. The two teams are separated by 52 points. The revised sidepod inlet shape aims to optimize airflow to the rear of the car, particularly around the engine cover and diffuser.
The engine cover modification seeks to manage hot air exit more efficiently, reducing drag and enhancing the overall aerodynamic profile. Floor edge and diffuser updates are critical for ground effect generation, a key performance differentiator in the 2026 regulations.
McLaren’s changes in these areas focus on sealing the floor more effectively and increasing downforce. Rear suspension alterations are linked to the aerodynamic package, allowing for improved control of ride height and platform stability, which directly impacts diffuser performance.
Williams also focused on performance-related updates for the FW48, with Baku marking the final step in what team principal James Vowles described as an ‘almost entirely new car.’ This significant mid-season development push effectively constitutes a ‘B-spec’ car, indicating a strong commitment to performance improvement.
The FW48 has been fitted with an updated floor, with the team changing the leading edge, the floor body, and the floor corner. Williams explained in the FIA notes: ‘We have modified the forward and outboard regions of the floor to extract more performance both locally and across the main underfloor surfaces.’
The updated tail geometry works in conjunction with the new floor to optimize the flow exiting the diffuser, further enhancing downforce. The FW48 also features a new front corner, a change to its suspension cladding, and modified rear brake duct furniture.
Alex Albon commented on the upgrades during Wednesday’s FIA press conference. He stated:
‘They’re significant if they work, so let’s see how it goes. We have to be honest with ourselves, we know what it should do on paper. I think the weight’s been a big talking point, and normally weight’s a guarantee, so hopefully it’s going to put us in a good place. The team have done a massive job back at the factory. To do a chassis change in the middle of a season is not easy, and so it’s putting us in a good place. Whether that’s to fight the midfield now, time will tell.’
Albon’s remarks highlight the direct performance gain expected from weight reduction. While McLaren and Williams brought significant updates, Audi topped the count with 14 new performance-related parts for its R26.
Audi’s extensive package included changes to the front wing, its endplate, and the R26’s nose, aimed at improving front-end downforce and directing airflow efficiently. The front and rear suspension, engine cover, and Halo have been reprofiled to reduce aerodynamic drag and optimize airflow.
The rear wing has been completely changed, including the beam and endplate, indicating a substantial effort to balance downforce and drag for Baku’s high-speed characteristics. A new floor is also part of Audi’s package, a fundamental change working with other components to maximize ground effect.
Gabriel Bortoleto described Audi’s new parts as ‘interesting,’ while Nico Hülkenberg suggested their full potential might become clearer in upcoming races in Malaysia and Singapore. This aggressive development strategy is part of Audi’s long-term plan for their full factory entry in 2027.
Other teams also introduced upgrades. Red Bull brought five parts, including a new floor body and sidepod with a revised split line to the floor, focusing on refining ground effect aerodynamics. Racing Bulls concentrated on the front of the car with a new front wing, front corner, and front suspension, aiming for improved steering response.
Cadillac introduced a new front suspension and diffuser, suggesting a focus on both mechanical grip and rear-end downforce. Five teams, including Ferrari, did not bring any new parts to the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
