Belgian GP aerodynamic updates: Ferrari, Red Bull, and Mercedes introduce new wing designs. At the 2025 Belgian Grand Prix, all top Formula 1 teams introduce new rear wing packages.

With the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps, Formula 1 returns to a circuit demanding low aerodynamic downforce. The long straights through the Ardennes emphasize aerodynamic efficiency, especially given the high average lap speeds exceeding 250 km/h. It is therefore no surprise that all the top teams introduce new rear wings at this race, while Red Bull and Mercedes bring notable updates to their front wings as well—though these front wing changes represent comprehensive upgrades rather than simple track-specific adaptations.

Review of Rear Wings
Starting with the leaders in the drivers’ championship, McLaren arrives in Spa with an evolved version of the low-downforce rear wing first introduced in Canada. The fundamental setup remains unchanged, featuring a mostly straight main profile except for a small central V-shape. However, there are refinements at the outer edges of the upper flap and adjustments to the geometry of the endplates. The Woking-based team remains among the least aggressive in reducing aerodynamic drag on the MCL39, as evidenced by its less impressive straight-line speed. Nevertheless, this is more than compensated by excellent performance in the middle sector thanks to abundant aerodynamic downforce.

Ferrari also brings a new rear wing to Belgium. The SF-25 now features a rear wing derived from the medium-low downforce specification used in 2024, characterized by a slightly concave main profile, contrasting with the V-shaped wing deployed at earlier rounds. Another innovation is seen in the DRS flap, which is now notched at the actuator area in the center to gain additional aerodynamic efficiency.

Red Bull reintroduces the low-downforce rear wing first seen at Silverstone. Initially, this new version was only brought to the UK for testing in preparation for its official debut at Spa. However, the Milton Keynes team decided to use it during their home race as well. This addition fills a critical gap from 2024 when Red Bull lacked a low-downforce aerodynamic package. Finally, Mercedes runs a more drag-reduced rear wing for the first time at Spa, although this update is not yet reflected in the official FIA documentation.

Front Wing Updates
Several changes also appear at the front of the cars in Belgium. Red Bull, for example, unveils an entirely new front wing. The most striking feature is the uniquely shaped trailing flap, cut to further reduce drag on Spa’s long straights. The most significant change, however, is visible in the first two profiles of the wing, which now slope downward toward the outside edges. Overall, the new front wing works in harmony with other aerodynamic updates on the RB21, including revisions to the front suspension and radiator inlets, representing a major redesign of the airflow management from front to rear.

Mercedes is no exception, also running a new front wing at the Belgian Grand Prix. Similar to Red Bull’s changes, this is a broad upgrade rather than a mere track-specific tweak. Modifications focus on the junction between the second profile and the vertical band of the endplate. This region is critical for generating vortices that help smooth out the turbulence caused by the front wheels and reduce their negative effect on the floor aerodynamics.

In summary, the Belgian Grand Prix renews the wing packages for all the top teams, delivering the final bursts of development on ground effect cars, which are now approaching the end of their evolution cycle.