After a two-week break since the last event in Austria, the teams have used the time to greenlight a series of changes which they hope will further boost their competitive form.
Ferrari’s revised front/centre floor and modified diffuser were previously spotted in the Paul Ricard pit lane on Thursday.
The team explained that the changes were part of a normal development cycle and would be carried over for future races.
“It aims to improve overall aerodynamic performance across the entire operating envelope of the car and is not specific to the Paul Ricard circuit,” the team explained in documents submitted to the FIA.
Comparison of Ferrari F1-75 tunnels
Photo by: Giorgio Piola
Red Bull
Detail of the Red Bull Racing RB18
Photo by: Uncredited
Red Bull has also focused on changes to the footprint, with revised fence geometries that extend all the way to the edge.
The team explained, “The fence layout has changed to redistribute local pressure distributions to improve loading while maintaining flow stability.”
The RB18 will also feature a revised upper fender stunt behind its rear brakes. This again aims for better downforce but without disturbing the lower wing cascade or the adjacent brake duct exits.
mercedes
Detail Mercedes W13
Photo by: Uncredited
Mercedes, which will run with a revised cooling duct on its nose that was spotted on Thursday, has also made changes to the floor edge and front brake duct.
On the ground, there is reduced curvature on the edge in front of the rear tire.
The team explained that this: “reduces local ground loading by reducing local camber [thereby] improving the flow in the diffuser, which increases the load on the diffuser.”
The addition of internal vents at the exit of the front brake duct aim to improve cooling, with very hot temperatures expected in France this weekend.
Alpine
Alpine A522 front detail
Photo by: Uncredited
Alpine has also maintained its development push by introducing changes to the floorboard and fences.
A new revised underfloor strake targets a higher energy “off-body” hit to improve airflow under the floor and its edges. Adjustments to the fences should help improve airflow around the back of the car.
