Red Bull debuts aggressive Bahrain test upgrades with refined sidepods
Red Bull has rolled out a major aerodynamic upgrade for its RB22 car at the Bahrain test, featuring redesigned sidepods and a new front wing. This marks a shift from reliability validation to performance optimization, as the team finalizes its package for the season start, despite encountering a minor setback during testing.
Red Bull has introduced a significant aerodynamic upgrade package during the final pre-season test in Bahrain, moving past initial reliability checks to aggressively optimize the RB22's performance. The changes, which include revised sidepods and a new front wing, signal the team's shift from a conservative launch-spec car to a more extreme performance configuration ahead of the season opener.
Why it matters:
After a first test focused on verifying the reliability of the new Red Bull Powertrains (RBPT) power unit, these upgrades represent the team's first major step in unlocking the car's true potential. This development phase is critical for establishing an early competitive advantage, especially with rivals like Ferrari showing strong pace. Red Bull's ability to quickly refine and validate a new package before the first race could set the tone for the initial part of the championship.
The details:
The upgrade package is comprehensive, targeting several key aerodynamic areas:
- Sidepod Redesign: The most visual change. The team has moved away from the initial, very conservative sidepod with no undercut below the radiator inlet. The new design features a more aggressive shape with refined airflow management along the underside, aimed at reducing drag and improving overall packaging.
- Front Wing: A new front wing assembly was fitted, working in concert with the updated bodywork to manage airflow.
- Aero Tweaks: Additional small winglets were added on the sidepods near the engine air intake and on the sides of the rear crash structure for enhanced flow conditioning.
- Mirror Supports: Head of Aerodynamics Enrico Balbo introduced new mirror supports as part of delivering a definitive car configuration for the start of the season.
What's next:
The team will use the remaining test days to gather data on this new package and confirm the chassis specification for the opening rounds. However, the program hit a minor snag on the first day of the second test, with Isack Hadjar's car spending considerable time in the garage. It remains unclear if the issue was related to the new upgrades or an unrelated problem. Red Bull's focus will be on resolving any teething issues to ensure the upgraded RB22 is fully operational and competitive for the Bahrain Grand Prix in two weeks.