Explained: The key details behind first McLaren aerodynamic evolution

McLaren has introduced at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix a first partial evolution to the aerodynamic concept of the MCL39. 

We are referring to the diffuser which has been reshaped in the trailing edge, slightly bent upwards so as to improve the extraction of air flow from under the car. 

Visually, this is a modification that we would dare to define as minimal; however, it will actually have a medium impact in terms of aerodynamic performance. 

Interestingly, the Woking-based team has in fact used, in combination with this modification, the rear wing that was introduced for the first time in Brazil last year, with slight adjustments in terms of the reduction of the chord of the main profile. 

It is therefore an element of carry over from the concept of the previous car, which combined with the revised diffuser helps in terms of increasing the efficiency of this car on the straights, a sort of congenital weakness of this project. 

Certainly, it is a prerogative that McLaren engineers are trying to modify with the first substantial development package to be introduced soon.

The British outfit did enjoy a perfect start to the weekend at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, as Lando Norris topped the timesheets ahead of Oscar Piastri. 

Norris had three-tenths of a second over Red Bull's Max Verstappen, who was the closest challenger to the current constructors' championship leader's.