Mercedes has brought the most extensive upgrade package to the 2026 Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid. With a new circuit for everyone, teams are taking different approaches, and Mercedes has opted for circuit-specific changes with three aerodynamic tweaks designed to reduce downforce and drag to suit the Madring's characteristics. Meanwhile, six other teams filed updates, but Williams, Visa Cash App Racing Bulls, Aston Martin, Haas, and Audi brought nothing new.
Mercedes: Three Changes at Once
Mercedes submitted the most comprehensive update this weekend. First, they reduced the span of the central winglet mounted above the rear wing flap. The goal is clear: reduce downforce and drag at a ratio suited to Madrid. Second, they added an additional winglet behind the exhaust tailpipe to increase exhaust flow turning, generating load and drag at the same ratio. Third, they reprofiled the front lip on the front drum to improve flow attachment through steering inputs, which in turn cleans up airflow to the rear of the car. This third change is likely a permanent performance gain rather than a track-specific tweak.
McLaren and Red Bull: Different Focus
McLaren brought one update to the Madring, adding elements to the rear wing to improve flow conditioning onto the mainplane and flap. They filed it as a performance change under flow conditioning rather than load generation. Meanwhile, Red Bull continued reliability work with two more updates. First, on the rear wheel bodywork, they reinforced the gaitor and added winglets downstream of the suspension fairings to restore load lost in earlier races. Second, on the floor bib, the laminate and shape were altered to reduce local strain and limit deterioration of the structure and aerodynamic surfaces under deflection. Remember, the "reliability" label might not tell the whole story.
Cadillac and Others: Load Generation
Cadillac focused on load generation. They reintroduced a revised trailing-edge winglet on the rear wing flap to generate more rear load and improve aerodynamic stability across a range of conditions. A small vertical turning vane was also added to the inner trailing edge of the outboard diffuser sidewall to improve flow. Meanwhile, Charles Leclerc of Ferrari expects the track to reward qualifying pace but offer little in the way of overtaking, so Ferrari's practice priorities will shift accordingly. George Russell topped FP1 cautiously, indicating teams are still finding the limit at this new circuit.
With only a few teams bringing significant updates, the Madrid race could be a test of who is best prepared for the new circuit challenge. Mercedes seems eager to maximize their car's potential, while Red Bull focuses on reliability. McLaren and Cadillac are trying to optimize aerodynamic balance. All eyes will be on qualifying and the race to see the real impact of these upgrades.
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