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McLaren and Kick Sauber Bring New Upgrades to the FIA for the Sao Paulo Grand Prix
As Formula 1 enters the final leg of a three-race stretch with the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, only McLaren and Kick Sauber have introduced new components to the FIA’s car presentation list. While many teams debuted upgrades at the U.S. Grand Prix two weeks ago, the condensed schedule of back-to-back races has limited recent updates. This trend continues at Interlagos, where McLaren and Kick Sauber are the only teams focusing on circuit-specific enhancements.
| Team | Component | Type | Primary reason |
|---|---|---|---|
 McLaren | Rear Wing | Circuit specific | Drag Range |
| McLaren | Beam Wing | Circuit specific | Drag Range |
| McLaren | Beam Wing | Circuit specific | Drag Range |
 Kick Sauber | Beam Wing | Performance | Mechanical Setup |
| Kick Sauber | Coke/Engine Cover | Circuit specific | Balance Range |
McLaren’s Rear Wing Upgrade Targets Downforce Optimization
McLaren’s focus for Interlagos centers on refining their downforce capabilities with a new rear wing. Designed for medium downforce, this wing aims to improve aerodynamic efficiency over the previous model. In addition, McLaren has provided two beam wing options—one for high downforce and another for low downforce—allowing the team flexibility based on real-time track conditions. This adjustment is intended to optimize the car’s balance and maximize performance at Sao Paulo’s challenging circuit, which demands precise downforce management.
Kick Sauber’s Suspension and Beam Wing Enhancements Boost Setup Flexibility
Meanwhile, Kick Sauber has introduced updates primarily targeting the car’s front suspension. With new outboard suspension pick-up points, Kick Sauber gains greater freedom to adjust mechanical setups, an advantage in finding optimal performance on the track. These updates include re-optimized suspension fairings and a specialized beam wing tailored to the Interlagos circuit, which enhances aerodynamic efficiency and aids in managing high-speed stability.
Other Teams Prepare for Future Races, Mercedes Revamps Components
Although McLaren and Kick Sauber are the only teams presenting new parts for Sao Paulo, some previously introduced upgrades are reappearing in the race lineup. Mercedes, for example, brings back its new floor design after a setback in Mexico. George Russell, forced to revert to an older floor due to a qualifying crash at Circuit of The Americas, will now join teammate Lewis Hamilton in utilizing the latest floor for this weekend’s race.
By leveraging targeted upgrades in this demanding part of the F1 calendar, McLaren and Kick Sauber aim to gain a competitive edge, while other teams focus on consolidating recent advancements as the season nears its climax.