by Teams across the field have used the three-week break since the Singapore GP to work on improvements. McLaren is a leader in this regard and brings the most updates of all teams. Close behind are Aston Martin and Mercedes, which also bring several new parts.
American GP upgrade analysis
McLaren
Andrea Stella’s team brought the most updates this weekend with a total of 7 new parts. These include four performance upgrades and three track-specific improvements and mark the start of McLaren’s final development phase this season.
The most notable changes to the MCL38 this weekend involve the front suspension and front wing, both of which are designed to improve airflow characteristics and increase aerodynamic loading.
Mercedes
Mercedes brings 6 upgrades including 4 performance updates and 2 track-specific updates. As previously reported by LWOS, this weekend’s package is significant – it includes a new floor on W15.
This is Mercedes’ first floor update since the first half of the season.
The Silver Arrows are hoping to make significant progress as they have also reprofiled their front suspension to improve airflow through the car. These are some of their biggest changes of the year and will provide important foundations to their 2025 package.
Aston Martin
In line with reports leading up to this weekend, Aston Martin has made several upgrades – six in total. These are all performance updates, including changes to the front wing, floor body and diffuser.
Mike Krack’s team has implemented a significantly new aerodynamic profile on the AMR24 in the hope of reversing the previous downward trend in 2024.
Given the difficult season so far, it is imperative that these upgrades are effective – otherwise questions will inevitably arise about next year’s season.
Red Bull
Red Bull has a relatively small update package this weekend with just two new components. The RB20 will be equipped with a new floor edge and engine cover this weekend.
These modifications are the result of intensive work in Milton Keynes to develop a more stable car. After an encouraging race (in terms of handling) in Singapore, Red Bull is optimistic that they can increase downforce without compromising stability.
Japan was the last time Red Bull introduced upgrades that worked as the team expected. It is crucial for Verstappen’s title hopes that these updates do not bring any surprises.
Haas
Haas is bringing a major upgrade package to COTA, consisting of 5 performance updates and 2 track-specific updates. This weekend the VF-24 will feature a new floor, engine cover and sidepod intake.
Given the relatively stable performance in 2024, Haas will be optimistic about these updates. Their new floor is designed to produce increased floor suction and overall downforce, while the new sidepod intake is designed to improve airflow and improve balance.
The rest of the field
Elsewhere on the grid there are only a handful of upgrades. Most notably, Ferrari (as previously reported by LWOS) has nothing new for the SF-24 this weekend.
This was to be expected as Fred Vasseur’s team was eager to test its Monza updates on a more conventional circuit.
VCARB has a single update – a new floor. Sauber has four upgrades on offer for this weekend, but they are only available to Valtteri Bottas. Zhou Guanyu will only receive this package at the Mexican GP.
