A new circuit like the Madring presents teams with a steep learning curve, from identifying the optimal racing line to managing tyre degradation. Adding another layer of complexity, several constructors have introduced technical upgrades for the Spanish Grand Prix weekend. Here is a comprehensive breakdown of every update brought to the grid.
Mercedes
Mercedes has signaled that more significant upgrades will arrive later in the season. For the Madrid round, the team has focused on circuit-specific aerodynamic adjustments to balance load and drag. The updates include a reduction in the rear wing central winglet span and the addition of a new winglet positioned behind the exhaust. The front lip has also been reprofiled to improve flow attachment across all steering conditions, a change designed to benefit performance beyond this specific weekend.
Ferrari
The Scuderia has adopted a conservative approach, submitting only a single minor update. The team has adapted the rear suspension fairing profile with the specific aim of recovering a local load benefit.
McLaren
Targeting another substantial points haul, McLaren has introduced additional rear wing furniture. The components are designed to improve flow conditioning onto the rear wing mainplane and flap elements.
Red Bull
Building on development work from Monza, Red Bull’s primary focus for the Spanish Grand Prix is reliability. The team has altered the rear wheel bodywork assembly to restore the aerodynamic load levels seen in earlier races. A geometric change has also been made to the floor bib.
Racing Bulls
Currently holding the ‘best of the rest’ position in the Constructors’ Championship, Racing Bulls has not submitted any upgrades for the event in Madrid.
Alpine
Following a standout weekend in Italy where Pierre Gasly secured pole position, Alpine has optimized the forward floor board. The modification targets improved local pressure distribution and flow management.
Haas
After making numerous chassis adjustments and equipping Ollie Bearman with the latest Ferrari power unit at the previous round, Haas has elected not to bring further upgrades to Spain.
Audi
Despite a run of four consecutive points finishes ending in Italy, Audi has also decided against introducing updates for the Spanish Grand Prix.
Williams
Williams is reserving its major upgrade package for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Consequently, Alex Albon and home favourite Carlos Sainz will race the current specification in Madrid. However, the team will utilize Friday’s practice sessions to test components intended for next year’s car.
Aston Martin
With the team’s B-spec challenger having debuted only a few rounds ago in Hungary, Aston Martin is prioritizing the maximization of that package alongside the updated Honda power unit. No upgrades have been listed for the Spanish Grand Prix.
Cadillac
As the only team yet to score a point, Cadillac has introduced two aerodynamic modifications. The team has reintroduced an updated central trailing edge winglet on the rear wing flap to generate additional rear aerodynamic load and improve stability. Additionally, a vane has been added to the outboard diffuser sidewall, targeting further aerodynamic performance and increased load at the rear of the car.
