The tiniest of upgrades can go a long way in Formula 1 and for that Red Bull's RB18 deserves special credit, after a Monaco Grand Prix that saw Sergio Perez make history. The Mexican driver turned third on the grid into a victory during a wet-to-dry race in the Principality that saw Red Bull outsmart Ferrari on strategy. The pace of F1's two front-running cars was mighty close all weekend long, even if Ferrari were able to lock out the front row during qualifying. But there were a number of tiny changes to the RB18 that helped push Perez on to the chequered flag and secure Red Bull their fourth consecutive Grand Prix win.
Amongst the most significant changes that the RB18 sported in Monaco was a tweak to the front brake air intakes, which carried a different opening. There was also a large vent slot added to the inner wall of the brake drums, next to the new cooling vents. For race day in Monaco, the size of the sidepod's upper gills was reduced, while it was interesting to note how the heat exchange of the power unit, despite the low speeds in Monte Carlo, was supported by a new lip, placed on the edge of the sidepod's rear ramp. Thanks to this change, more hot air from the lower, rear end of the radiator packs placed inside the deeply fitted sides of the RB18 was able to be released.
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