Formula 1 constructor performance and technical updates

McLaren and Red Bull Racing are implementing technical upgrades to address performance trends in the Formula 1 constructors’ championship. Mclaren team principal Andrea Stella confirmed the team will introduce significant upgrades to the MCL40 during the upcoming races in Brazil and Las Vegas. This follows a slump in performance that has seen the team drop to fourth in the standings after a period of earlier dominance. The team plans to bring minimal updates to the Mexico City Grand Prix, focusing instead on more substantial technical packages for the São Paulo and Las Vegas Grands Prix to regain competitiveness against rivals like Ferrari and Mercedes.

Red Bull Racing is introducing a significant technical update package for the RB22 ahead of the Mexico City Grand Prix. As the only top-tier team bringing performance-oriented developments to the high-altitude circuit, the team is focusing on thermal management and aerodynamic optimization. The upgrades include a re-engineered engine cover with expanded cooling louvres to combat thin atmospheric conditions, alongside modified sidepod profiling and a revised floor-to-sidepod split line to enhance downforce.

Internal tensions emerged at Red Bull following an on-track incident between Max Verstappen and Liam Lawson during FP2 in Mexico. This contact resulted in debris on the circuit, a brief red flag, and a one-place grid penalty for both drivers. During qualifying, Verstappen was unable to secure pole position due to the penalty and traffic interference. He reported that turbulent air and the presence of Lando Norris in the final sector disrupted his braking points, causing him to lock his wheels in turn 13. Despite starting fifth, team principal Laurent Mekies suggested a podium finish remains a realistic goal.