Formula 1 Dashboard
Formula 1 teams have arrived in Baku with a focus on optimizing their cars for the unique challenges of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. While the long straights demand a low-downforce setup, the circuit's heavy braking zones and twisty middle sector require specific technical adjustments. This weekend, teams like Ferrari, Racing Bulls, and Red Bull Racing have brought targeted upgrades, primarily focusing on brake cooling and aerodynamic refinements, to gain a crucial edge on the tight, high-speed street circuit.
Ferrari: Enhanced Brake Cooling for Baku
Ferrari has implemented a specific upgrade to improve brake cooling at the Baku City Circuit. The team is using a larger front brake duct exit, a modification designed to manage the high demands of the track's heavy braking zones. This circuit-specific change aims to support their performance, particularly given the impressive qualifying record of Charles Leclerc, who has secured the last four pole positions in Baku.
Racing Bulls: Circuit-Specific Brake Duct Modifications
Similar to Ferrari, Racing Bulls has focused on brake performance for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. They have updated both the front and rear brake ducts to increase cooling airflow, tailoring the components to the circuit's unique demands. These modifications are intended to optimize the car's braking efficiency during the race.
Red Bull Racing: Rear Wing Reprofile and Monza Floor
Red Bull Racing has brought a "mild" upgrade in the form of a reprofiled inboard assembly for their RB21 rear wing. This change is aimed at increasing downforce without disrupting the car's aerodynamic stability. The team is also leveraging the floor upgrades introduced at Monza, which contributed to Max Verstappen's dominant performance there. With last year's struggles at Baku in mind, the team hopes these upgrades will improve their competitiveness at this race.
Mercedes: Front Wing Flap Revisions
Mercedes has introduced a revised front wing with shorter-chord front wing flaps. This adjustment is designed to reduce downforce on specific sections of the wing, helping to achieve a better balance when the car is equipped with a low-downforce rear wing. This change is part of their effort to optimize the car's setup for the Baku track, which features both a technical middle sector and long, high-speed straights.
