Dakar Rally News: McLaren Brings Upgrades to Austrian Grand Prix to Challenge Red Bull
McLaren Unveils Upgrades to Close Gap to Red Bull
In a bid to close the gap to championship leaders Red Bull, McLaren has revealed a host of upgrades for this weekend’s Austrian Grand Prix Formula 1 event. The Woking-based squad has emerged as Red Bull’s most formidable challenger since introducing developments in Miami, which helped Lando Norris secure his maiden victory.
Despite fierce competition from Ferrari and Mercedes, who have also brought revised parts to their respective cars, McLaren appears to have maintained the upper hand in challenging Max Verstappen’s dominant RB20.
The team has now ramped up its efforts to become the pacesetting benchmark, with two modified components unveiled on the FIA’s official upgrades sheet for the Red Bull Ring. McLaren will utilize a new front wing with altered geometry, working in tandem with an updated front suspension to improve flow conditioning on the MCL38.
Other Teams Introduce Upgrades
Meanwhile, Mercedes has adopted a modified beam wing on its ever-improving W15 charger, designed to reduce load and result in less drag. Ferrari will aim to unlock the full potential of its new package introduced in Barcelona, with the SF-24 set to feature additional cooling louvres at the Austrian circuit.
Elsewhere, Red Bull is another team seeking to understand the extensive upgrades it brought to the previous round, with the two cars running split-specifications during the opening practice session. Additionally, Daniel Ricciardo’s Faenza-based squad will introduce more parts this weekend, including amendments to the winglets on the rear drum.
“The Austrian Grand Prix this weekend will feature a Sprint format, meaning teams have just one practice hour to fine-tune their cars before the all-important qualifying session and race. It will be an intense battle as McLaren looks to capitalize on its upgrades and mount a serious challenge to Red Bull’s dominance.”
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