Both Red Bull and Ferrari are planning to bring upgrades to the upcoming Austrian Grand Prix. Reportedly, the Italians are focusing on a new floor and a revised rear suspension, while Red Bull is also addressing the floor, but also making changes to the wings and front suspension. At the Spielberg circuit, where grip plays a crucial role, both teams aim to once again challenge McLaren.
After the Canadian Grand Prix, McLaren, the current leader in both the constructors’ and drivers’ championships, no longer seems invincible. Over the past few months, the MCL39 has been the most formidable car on the grid, but in Montreal, the team seemed to have lost some of its dominance. With a series of new upgrades, rivals Ferrari and Red Bull aim to once again compete for victories. Max Verstappen has already won two Grands Prix this year, but the Scuderia is still waiting for their first victory.
New Components for the Top Teams
Experts predict that the second half of the season could be much more exciting. If the other top teams manage to close the gap with McLaren, we could see many different race winners, just like last year. Regarding the upgrades that Ferrari is bringing to Spielberg, team boss Fred Vasseur is cautiously optimistic. Speaking to the media in Montreal, he confirmed that the car is fundamentally competitive, but the team often loses points when setting up. “In Monaco, we were able to drive at the front, even during the lap for pole position,” said the Frenchman. “That’s what we need to focus on. But if we want to perform like that, we first need to have a good weekend in terms of execution. And that’s where we failed miserably in Canada.”
Mercedes, which benefited from the right conditions in Canada and saw both drivers finish on the podium, is also bringing new components to Austria. Deputy Technical Director Simone Resta revealed that the team wants to implement further developments at the Red Bull Ring. “I would sign anywhere to repeat the Montreal stunt,” the Italian said in a review of the Canadian GP. “In Imola and Spain, we already got a better understanding of the characteristics of the W16. In Austria, we can build on that knowledge. Of course, we are also bringing new parts, so let’s wait and see what Spielberg brings us.”
Ferrari and Red Bull hope to further close the gap to McLaren through upgrades.
