Teams across the field have capitalised on the three-week break since the Singapore GP to work on upgrades. McLaren lead the way in this regard, bringing the most updates of any team. Aston Martin and Mercedes are just behind, also bringing several new parts.
American GP Upgrade Analysis
McLaren
Andrea Stella’s team have brought the most updates this weekend, with a total of 7 new parts. These feature 4 performance upgrades and 3 circuit-specific ones, marking the beginning of McLaren’s final development phase this season.
The most notable changes to the MCL38 this weekend are to the front suspension and front wing, which are both intended to improve airflow characteristics and increase aerodynamic load.
Mercedes
Mercedes bring 6 upgrades, including 4 performance updates and 2 circuit-specific ones. As reported previously by LWOS, this weekend’s package is significant – featuring a new floor on the W15.
This is Mercedes’ first floor update since the first half of the season.
The Silver Arrows will hope for a significant step forward, having also re-profiled their front suspension to improve airflow through the car. These are some of their biggest changes of the year, and will establish key foundations of their 2025 package.
Aston Martin
Consistent with reports in the build-up to this weekend, Aston Martin have brought several upgrades – 6 in total. These are all performance updates, including changes to the front wing, floor body and diffuser.
Mike Krack’s team have implemented a significantly new aerodynamic profile on the AMR24, in hopes of reversing their downward trend in 2024 so far.
Given their difficult season until now, it is imperative these upgrades are effective – otherwise questions will inevitably emerge about next year’s campaign.
Red Bull
Red Bull have a relatively small update package this weekend, with just two new components. The RB20 will be fitted with a new floor edge and engine cover this weekend.
These modifications represent the product of intensive work at Milton Keynes to develop a more stable car. After an encouraging race (in terms of drivability) in Singapore, Red Bull are optimistic they can add downforce without sacrificing stability.
Japan was the last time Red Bull brought upgrades that worked as the team anticipated. For Verstappen’s title hopes, it is crucial these updates do not spring any surprises.
Haas
Haas bring a large upgrade package to COTA, which consists of 5 performance updates and 2 circuit-specific ones. A new floor, engine cover and sidepod inlet will feature on the VF-24 this weekend.
Considering their relatively stable development in 2024, Haas will be optimistic about these updates. Their new floor should generate increased floor suction and overall downforce, whilst the new sidepod inlet is intended to improve airflow and improve balance.
The rest of the field
Elsewhere on the grid, only a handful of upgrades are present. Most notably, Ferrari (as previously reported by LWOS) have nothing new for the SF-24 this weekend.
This was to be expected, with Fred Vasseur’s team eager to test their Monza updates at a more conventional circuit.
VCARB have a single update – a new floor. Sauber have 4 upgrades for this weekend, although they will only be available to Valtteri Bottas. Zhou Guanyu won’t receive this package until the Mexican GP.
