While major upgrades aren’t typically crucial at the Monaco Grand Prix, Red Bull still introduced some subtle tweaks in Monte Carlo.
According to the FIA’s official submission document, the team made a minor modification to the front brake ducts: “To achieve the necessary cooling for the front brakes, a larger exit duct is available, which required a trim to the gaitor sealing the upper wishbone.”
A larger brake duct helps with cooling and temperature regulation, but in Monaco — where heavy braking is less frequent compared to high-degradation circuits like Bahrain or Canada — this isn’t a critical concern. However, brake ducts in modern F1 also play an aerodynamic role, and this could be the real motive behind Red Bull’s adjustment.
Brakes have become a hot topic in the paddock lately. The FIA recently investigated McLaren’s rear brake system amid suspicions — reportedly from Red Bull — that the team may be using water to help cool the tyres, a practice strictly prohibited. After inspecting Oscar Piastri’s car post-Miami Grand Prix, the FIA found no rule breaches, and McLaren’s MCL39 passed all checks.
