Red Bull Rolls Out Extensive RB22 Upgrade at Austrian Grand Prix

Red Bull arrived at the Austrian Grand Prix with a heavily revised RB22, introducing changes across the sidepods, floor, and rear end while finally solving its weight problem. Though not a full B-spec, the update is a comprehensive refinement aimed at eliminating weaknesses from the car's early-season specification.

Why it matters:

Extracting meaningful gains from an existing concept mid-season is critical as Red Bull looks to close the gap to the frontrunners. By resolving aerodynamic inefficiencies and bringing the RB22 down to the regulatory minimum weight, Milton Keynes has removed a handicap that has plagued the team since the opening rounds.

The details:

• Sidepod and cooling: The sidepod inlets have been reshaped to improve internal airflow and alter pressure distribution through the cooling channels. Additional louvres on the engine cover address the high ambient temperatures expected in Austria.
• Floor and rear: The floor's leading edge and adjacent bodywork have been revised to better manage turbulence, while micro-aerodynamic detailing around the gearbox fairing and rear suspension has been refined.
• FTM adoption: Red Bull has introduced its own interpretation of the Flick Tail Mode (FTM) profile behind the exhaust exit, a Ferrari-pioneered concept that manipulates diffuser airflow to boost rear wing efficiency.
• Weight breakthrough: Sources confirm the updated chassis has hit the minimum weight limit for the first time this season, reflecting cumulative savings across the new components.

What's next:

The upgrades will face their first true test at the Red Bull Ring, where on-track correlation will determine whether factory gains translate to lap time. If the package performs as simulated, Red Bull could strengthen its position at its home race and build momentum for the races ahead.