Azerbaijan Grand Prix: Technical Updates and Key Insights
As teams prepare for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, notable technical upgrades focus on brake cooling enhancements necessary for the demanding Baku City Circuit. The long straights in the first and third sectors create significant braking zones, with drivers decelerating from 205 mph to 75 mph, experiencing up to 5g forces at both Turn 1 and Turn 3.
Key Upgrades
Ferrari has introduced a larger front brake duct exit, specifically designed to manage the high thermal demands of the circuit, addressing the brake overheating challenges experienced in past races. Charles Leclerc has secured pole position at Baku for the last four consecutive races, including the 2023 sprint, yet he is still in search of his first race victory at this venue.
Red Bull Racing, pursuing improved cooling performance, has modified front and rear brake ducts. Additionally, a reprofiled inboard assembly for the RB21’s rear wing is expected to enhance downforce while maintaining airflow stability. The team will rely on floor upgrades introduced at Monza, where Max Verstappen dominated, aiming to improve on a previously lackluster performance in Baku.
Mercedes has opted for a revised front wing with shorter chord front wing flaps to optimize balance when paired with a low-downforce rear wing. This modification responds to the need for fine-tuning in the predominantly low downforce setup typically favored in Baku, despite the track’s technical middle sector.
In contrast, McLaren, Aston Martin, Alpine, Haas, Williams, and Sauber have not declared any new components for this race weekend, as focus shifts toward preparations for 2026 car designs.
As teams finalize their strategies ahead of the race, the emphasis on brake cooling adaptations highlights the specific challenges presented by the unique layout of the Baku City Circuit.
