Mercedes opts against further Austin updates as rivals bring new parts

McLaren, Ferrari and Red Bull have brought new components to Austin, while Mercedes has opted against further updates for the United States Grand Prix. Mercedes will instead focus on extracting the maximum performance from the package introduced two rounds earlier at the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia; it has proved troublesome so far.

According to the FIA’s official car-presentation submissions, Ferrari has the most extensive package among the leading four teams, with changes to the floor, sidepods and diffuser. Its floor revisions include the front floor’s leading edge and supporting elements, and are intended to increase downforce at both ends of the car while improving airflow towards the rear. Revisions to the sidepod inlet, undercut and coke-line geometry complement an updated diffuser designed to generate additional aerodynamic load more efficiently.

McLaren has three updates: revised front- and rear-corner assemblies, plus a modified diffuser. The front changes work alongside the suspension fairings to improve airflow; the rear-corner revisions target increased local load. The diffuser is intended to improve aerodynamic performance across the speed range.

Red Bull has made two changes. An optional extra vane on the footplate of the front-wing endplate allows tyre-surface temperature measurements while adding local aerodynamic load. A revised elastomeric gaiter profile at the front corner is aimed at improving reliability by reducing the risk of material tearing under steering loads.