F1i Tech: Ferrari and McLaren lead Monaco GP updates

With the unique demands of the tight and twisty Monaco Grand Prix, F1 teams have introduced a range of circuit-specific upgrades to boost performance on the streets of Monte Carlo.

The prestigious venue’s slow corners, low-speed traction zones, and the importance of qualifying have driven teams to focus heavily on downforce, steering angle, and cooling efficiency.

Here’s our team-by-team rundown of each outfit’s tweaks and updates.

Ferrari have rolled out a suite of modifications to the SF-25 for Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton aimed at enhancing low-speed agility and downforce. Key changes include front suspension and corner upgrades—specifically to the trackrod, suspension fairings, and scoop clearance—to allow for greater single wheel angle, crucial for Monaco’s tight turns.

Additionally, Ferrari have deployed a high-downforce rear wing setup, using more loaded main and flap profiles to suit the circuit’s low aerodynamic efficiency requirements.

McLaren arrived in Monaco with a revised aerodynamic package and front-end tweaks. A new rear wing sits between their medium and high downforce setups, offering a balance of drag and load. Supporting it are beam wing variants, including a new medium-high load design.

To meet Monaco’s cornering demands, the front suspension geometry has been adjusted, and a new brake cooling option has been added on the front axle to address increased thermal loads.

Red Bull’s upgrades are focused on rear-end downforce and enhanced steering lock. Their Monaco-specific rear wing and beam wing setup increases rearwards aerodynamic load for better grip at low speeds. Up front, modifications to the lower wishbone fairing allow for greater steering lock, while a larger exit duct and a trimmed gaitor on the upper wishbone ensure improved brake cooling efficiency.

Aston Martin – who have designer Adrian Newey on hand this weekend to chime in on the technicals – bring circuit-specific adjustments to the front wing, rear wing, and rear corner of their car. While technical specifics haven’t been disclosed, these changes are likely designed to maximize downforce and mechanical grip in Monaco’s slow-speed sections.

Alpine’s upgrades include circuit-specific rear wing and beam wing tweaks for drag range optimization, alongside a performance-focused front suspension modification to increase road wheel angle, tailored to Monaco’s unique layout. These changes aim to boost Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto’s competitiveness after a mixed season.

Haas has introduced performance upgrades to their rear wing, beam wing, and front suspension for Esteban Ocon and Oliver Bearman. These tweaks enhance local load and mechanical setup, aiming to improve cornering and aerodynamic efficiency on Monaco’s twisty circuit, building on their solid 2024 campaign.

Racing Bulls have updated their front corner, beam wing, and rear wing for Liam Lawson and Isack Hadjar. These circuit-specific tweaks focus on optimizing aerodynamic load and cooling for Monaco’s slow corners, aiming to capitalize on their recent driver reshuffle.

Williams bring a comprehensive package featuring rear wing, beam wing, front suspension, and front corner tweaks. The modifications aim to improve both aerodynamic grip and cornering precision in Monaco’s narrow confines.

Sauber’s adjustments include a revised rear wing and front corner components to better suit the low-speed nature of the circuit.

In contrast, Mercedes have opted not to introduce any Monaco-specific updates this weekend, sticking with their existing package.

Each team’s changes reflect the unique technical challenge Monaco presents – where precision and peak mechanical grip often outweigh pure aerodynamic efficiency.

Read also: Leclerc hopes Monaco magic unlocks ‘something new’ for Ferrari

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