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F1 Monza Upgrades Overview

Sep 3, 2025

Overview

The transcript reviews upcoming team-specific upgrades and expectations for the Monza Grand Prix, focusing on aerodynamic changes—particularly rear wings—across the Formula 1 grid, and evaluates which teams may perform strongly at this high-speed circuit.

Track-Specific Upgrades at Monza

  • Monza, known as the Temple of Speed, requires unique aerodynamic setups, especially very low-downforce rear wings.
  • Rear wings for Monza are visible earlier in the season due to the GP's late calendar spot.
  • Teams generally bring chopped-down front and rear wings to reduce drag for Monza's long straights.

Team-by-Team Expectations and Upgrades

Alpine

  • No performance upgrades expected; will use an extremely low-downforce rear wing due to power deficiency.

Racing Bulls

  • Car is well-balanced but not the best; expected to run an even skinnier rear wing than in Belgium for drag reduction.
  • Drivers' confidence noticeably better in the Racing Bulls compared to their Red Bull stint.

Haas

  • Uses a flat, low-drag rear wing similar to Alpine; expected to introduce a chopped front wing for Monza.

Aston Martin (AMR)

  • Will likely run the Silverstone floor, believed to create less drag.
  • Expected to use the Spa-spec rear wing with additional drag-shredding features and modified front wing.
  • May not be particularly strong at Monza compared to other teams.

Red Bull

  • Monza-spec rear wing, first seen at Silverstone, prioritizes drag reduction but previously compromised wet performance.
  • Low-downforce front wing expected, with further upgrades possible but more likely for later races like COTA.
  • Monza performance uncertain—potential for mid-field results.

Mercedes

  • Did not bring the lowest downforce rear wing to Belgium but likely to do so at Monza.
  • Straight-line speed may lag compared to Ferrari and McLaren; Monza may suit them less.

McLaren

  • Car is inherently quick despite being draggy; expected to perform strongly due to mechanical advantages and tire management.
  • Will use a familiar low-drag wing package effective at high-speed tracks.

Ferrari

  • Historically performs well at Monza; will use minimal-drag wings tested in Hungary as part of 2026 development.
  • Further drag-reducing upgrades anticipated for Monza.
  • Charles Leclerc considered especially strong at this circuit.

Decisions

  • Teams will generally adopt extremely low-drag aero packages for Monza.
  • Ferrari and McLaren expected to prioritize straight-line speed and bring extra upgrades.

Action Items

  • TBD – Content Creator: Cover additional Monza upgrades in the Thursday video.