Prior to the summer break, McLaren focused on adding downforce to their car, which left them no time to develop a specialized low-drag package. This oversight left their MCL60 struggling on Spa-Francorchamps’ extensive straightaways, making it difficult for drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri to compete effectively.
To preempt similar issues at Monza, where aerodynamics are even more pivotal, the team didn’t start from scratch with a new package. Instead, the Woking-based crew decided to make crucial adjustments to their existing lower downforce elements, aiming to give their drivers an edge on the straights.
Among the most noticeable changes are alterations to the rear wing configuration. The wing has been substantially streamlined to cut back on drag, including the removal of the bottom spoon-shaped component. McLaren has informed the FIA that they’ve shipped a “rear wing assembly with less drag, featuring a relieved mainplane and flap.”
This overhaul is supported by a reconfigured flap assembly, offering the team dual trimming options. They’ve also revamped the rear wing endplate and pared back the rear corner winglets. At the car’s forefront, the front wing flap has been downsized to maintain aerodynamic harmony with the slimmed-down rear wing.
![Mclaren MCL60 technical detail]
(Photo by: Filip Cleeren)
In addition, McLaren has made changes to the front brake duct scoop. The modification aims to bolster aerodynamic efficiency while not sacrificing the cooling system.
In the larger F1 landscape, reigning world champions Red Bull have opted to streamline the trailing edge flaps on both their front and rear wings for the Monza race, eschewing an entirely new design. Ferrari, still recovering from a lackluster Dutch Grand Prix, has gone the custom route with a Monza-specific low-drag wing package.
Mercedes isn’t lagging behind, debuting a new rear wing and beam wing, both of which feature a shorter chord to minimize air resistance. Alpine has introduced a packer to its beam wing to achieve similar objectives.
Aston Martin has made subtler changes, mainly focusing on a new rear wing flap with a reduced chord. Alfa Romeo has taken a more comprehensive approach, tweaking both the rear wing’s main plane and the endplates. They’ve also reengineered the front suspension geometry to optimize airflow toward the car’s rear.
![AlphaTauri AT04 technical detail]
(Photo by: Filip Cleeren)
AlphaTauri hasn’t been idle either. Alongside the common downforce reductions on the front and rear wings, the team has taken the extra step of removing the turning vanes on the rear-view mirrors to further lessen drag.
Williams has come prepared with a streamlined front wing flap, but they’ll only deploy it if necessary to align with their rear wing adjustments.
Haas remains the outlier, choosing to recycle existing parts rather than introducing new Monza-specific components.
Further Reads:
- Verstappen enthuses about new performance engineer: “It’s nothing short of extraordinary.”
- Ferrari announces Cardile as new F1 Technical Director
- F1 considering diffuser modifications to enhance visibility in wet conditions
So, there you have it folks. Monza is shaping up to be an aerodynamic chess match, and McLaren is making sure they’re bringing a queen to the board this time around. Whether these changes will catapult them to the podium remains a storyline worth tuning in for.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about McLaren Monza F1 wings
What is the main focus of the article?
The article primarily focuses on McLaren’s significant alterations to its Monza F1 wings, aiming to overcome the speed challenges they encountered at the Spa-Francorchamps circuit. The text also provides an overview of changes made by other F1 teams for the Monza race.
Why did McLaren revamp its Monza F1 wings?
McLaren revamped its Monza F1 wings to improve the car’s aerodynamic efficiency and to be more competitive on the straights. The changes came as a response to their underwhelming performance at Spa, where the long straights proved challenging for their existing setup.
What specific changes has McLaren made to the car?
McLaren made multiple changes, notably streamlining the rear wing to reduce drag and altering the flap assembly to provide dual trimming options. They also made modifications to the front wing flap and the front brake duct scoop.
How are other teams preparing for Monza?
Other F1 teams are also making various adjustments. Red Bull streamlined the trailing edge flaps on their front and rear wings, Ferrari introduced a custom low-drag wing package, and Mercedes and Alpine made changes to reduce air resistance. Aston Martin, Alfa Romeo, and AlphaTauri also made notable tweaks to their cars.
Is every team making changes for the Monza race?
Almost every team is making some form of change, except for Haas. Haas decided to stick with their existing parts rather than introduce new Monza-specific components.
What is the anticipated impact of these changes on the Monza race?
While it’s difficult to predict the exact outcomes, the changes aim to improve aerodynamic efficiency, which is crucial for competitiveness at Monza. Teams are essentially participating in an “aerodynamic chess match,” and the upgrades could potentially reshape the leaderboard.
What additional readings are suggested at the end of the article?
The article recommends further reading on Max Verstappen’s experience with a new performance engineer, Ferrari’s announcement of a new F1 Technical Director, and F1’s consideration of diffuser modifications for enhanced visibility in wet conditions.
More about McLaren Monza F1 wings
- McLaren’s Official Announcement on Wing Changes
- A Deep Dive into F1 Aerodynamics
- The Importance of Monza in the F1 Calendar
- Lando Norris Discusses McLaren’s Monza Preparations
- Red Bull’s Approach to the Monza Grand Prix
- Ferrari’s F1 Technical Director Announcement
- FIA’s Official Regulations on Aerodynamic Components
- Verstappen’s Thoughts on New Performance Engineer
- Overview of the Spa-Francorchamps Circuit
- Wet Weather Visibility in F1: Current Solutions and Future Plans
8 comments
Sometimes it’s not about the car, it’s the driver. Can’t wait to see how all these changes actually play out on the track.
Ferrari going custom for Monza? You gotta love it. This is our race to lose.
Whoa, McLaren’s pulling all the stops for Monza huh? About time they get their speed game on point! Lando and Oscar better make it worth it.
Red Bull and Mercedes always stealin the show. Let’s see if McLaren can shake up the podium this time. fingers crossed.
McLaren has been laggin behind a bit this season. Hope this revamp is a game changer. ya know what they say, “if youre not first, youre last” LOL.
So Haas is sitting this one out, huh? guess they’re saving their pennies for next year or something.
Man, aerodynamics in F1 is like 4D chess. These guys are geniuses to tweak and adapt so quickly. Mad respect.
That article’s a technical goldmine! So many changes happening, can’t keep up but im loving it.