Thomas Maher from PlanetF1.com documented Ferrari’s upgrades at Imola.
Although much of the focus in the build-up to Imola has been on Ferrari’s said-to-be Red Bull-styled upgrades, the reigning World Champion didn’t disappoint with five notable new parts.
Adrian Newey’s final detailed input in designing the RB20 is being portrayed as Red Bull has restricted his access after his confirmed departure from the team in early next year.
Red Bull, Ferrari and Aston Martin lead the way with updates
Red Bull is not complacent after their strong performance in winning four out of the first six Grands Prix this year and dominating qualifying. The team from Milton Keynes is determined to regain control after McLaren’s celebrations in Miami.
Not only has the team upgraded the floor of the RB20, but they have also installed a new front wing, rear corner, and nose on the car.
Since 2022, the floor and Newey’s innovative “seeing air” techniques have been credited as vital elements to Red Bull’s success. The recent design mentioned in the FIA report, derived from computational fluid dynamics (CFD) knowledge, involves repositioning the shedding edges under the wing. This adjustment aims to extract a higher load in specific areas while still meeting the criteria for flow stability.
At the same time, changes have been made to the floor structure, including a modification to the upper surface. This alteration aims to enhance the flow of air towards components located further downstream.
Max Verstappen has made it clear the upgrades are not in response to McLaren’s Miami GP win, they were always in the “pipeline” at Red Bull.
Ferrari also have a host of new parts, seven to be exact, but it is the sidepod inlet, engine cover and diffuser layout that have caught the eye, along with the rear wing.
The team has implemented a new design called the ‘P-shape inlet’ in the sidepods, enhancing the flow quality along the floor edge. The engine cover has also undergone modifications to improve cooling and enhance flow quality towards the rear of the car.
Ferrari’s upgrades have been complemented by optimizing the diffuser’s profile, resulting in a revised design.
Ferrari’s SF-24 ‘2.0’ boasts modifications to its rear suspension, floor edge, and both the front and rear wings.
Mercedes has introduced the second half of their package as Imola kicks off the European races, providing teams with an advantageous opportunity to bring in new parts and swiftly replace them in case of any accidents.
The upcoming W15 model will showcase several new components including an upgraded floor body, floor fences, beam wing, rear wing, and front corner.
Although the initial phase of the upgrade did not result in significant performance improvements in Miami, Mercedes attributed this to advancements made by their competitors. Nevertheless, they remained confident that they were heading in the right direction.
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Aston Martin made a significant impact at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, surpassing Ferrari by introducing a remarkable nine updates.
The AM24 boasts numerous upgrades, including a fresh front wing and nose, revamped floor, diffuser, engine cover, rear suspension, and rear corner.
Aston Martin has high hopes that Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll can compete for a podium finish, as their focus is on performance rather than just circuit-specific abilities.
McLaren, the recent winners of Formula 1 races, have introduced circuit-specific wings at Imola. In addition, Alpine, Williams, and Stake have made adjustments to their floors.
Haas has introduced a new rear suspension, altering the shape of the top wishbone fairings to enhance their compatibility with the upcoming airflow. On the other hand, RB has opted to retain their existing setup without any modifications.
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