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Red Bull, Ferrari and McLaren have all brought updates to the Mexican Grand Prix, but none of the leading teams have introduced a major upgrade package. Instead, most of the modifications are circuit-specific, with cooling requirements taking priority at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez.
The FIA has published its official car presentation document ahead of the Mexican Grand Prix, detailing the changes introduced by the teams for this weekend. Among the four leading outfits, Red Bull and Ferrari have registered two updated components each, McLaren have submitted one, while Mercedes have arrived without any new parts.
However, the changes are relatively minor, with teams primarily adapting their cars to the unusual conditions in Mexico City rather than introducing significant developments aimed at improving overall performance. The circuit's high altitude makes cooling particularly challenging, as the thinner air reduces the effectiveness of the systems responsible for controlling temperatures.
Red Bull have declared two modifications, affecting the engine cover and sidepods. The first concerns the engine cover, where additional ventilation openings have been introduced to improve cooling. The existing outlets have been extended, with further openings positioned towards the outer sections of the bodywork.
The objective is to increase the amount of hot air escaping from the car, helping the radiators operate effectively despite the demanding conditions.
The second change involves the sidepods and their connection to the floor. Red Bull have adjusted the geometry around this area to improve airflow beneath the radiator inlet. Unlike the engine cover modification, this update is intended to deliver a small aerodynamic benefit by increasing local downforce while maintaining stability.
Nevertheless, neither change represents a substantial development package, with the team focusing on relatively limited adjustments.
Photo: Red Bull Contentpool
Ferrari have also submitted two updates, both designed specifically for the Mexican circuit. The Scuderia have enlarged the rear opening of the engine cover, creating additional space for hot air to escape.
They have also introduced extra ventilation panels on the upper sidepod surfaces, increasing the cooling capacity available during the weekend. These changes are particularly relevant in Mexico City, where the reduced air density makes temperature management more difficult than at many other circuits.
Ferrari have acknowledged that the modifications come with an aerodynamic efficiency penalty, but the additional cooling capacity is considered necessary for the conditions. Neither update is intended to provide a direct performance improvement, with the focus instead on ensuring the car operates within its required temperature range.
McLaren have registered just one update for the Mexican Grand Prix, also targeting cooling. The Woking-based team have modified the ventilation openings on their car, making them larger and extending them further forwards.
The revised shape is designed to improve the power unit's cooling capabilities and address the challenges created by Mexico City's altitude.
Like Ferrari, McLaren have not introduced any significant aerodynamic developments, with their sole modification specifically tailored to the requirements of this weekend's circuit.