Ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix, Red Bull has showcased its latest Formula 1 upgrades - with a fresh package of sidepods modifications. At face value, the upgrades for Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez's RB19 are impressive, but ominously for rival squads, goes far beyond just a 'minor improvement.' Around the sidepod intakes, the bodywork has been altered, now with a reduced height and a far narrower intake opening in a change from the design used earlier in 2023 - a season in which Red Bull have won all 10 races so far. This article continues below the comparison of the RB19's old and new sidepods.
Efficiency is key
This evolution in sidepod design also has an impact at the front of the car - with modifications being made to the front-wing. A strong front-end is vital at the tight, twisty Hungoraring circuit, with the new parts ensuring a more efficient airflow to the sidepod inlets. This in itself is an interesting development from Red Bull - especially with high temperatures expected in Hungary over the weekend as Central Europe endures a heatwave. Traditionally, teams will look to open up the bodywork as much as they can to improve cooling, but the much tighter bodywork around the sidepod inlets and radiators indicates the confidence of the team in being able to squeeze the packaging, yet not allow temperatures to rise. Below: the old and new RB19 and the modified front wing.
Red Bull's warning
The 2023 championships are all but won for Red Bull, with it taking an implosion of a scale never seen in F1 for the team not to retain both crowns. This means the team can begin to look at 2024 and the RB20 machine, with these latest upgrades being the first indication of potential improvements and adaptions for the new car. It is a clear message to the likes of Mercedes, Ferrari and Aston Martin: our concept can get even better and it will continue to do so. Given Red Bull's advantage over the field, that is a daunting prospect.
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