The iconic Spa-Francorchamps circuit welcomes Formula 1 back for Round 13 of the 2025 season, and with its fast straights, elevation changes and challenging mix of corners, it presents one of the toughest technical tests on the calendar. With the added challenge of unpredictable Ardennes weather and a Sprint format this weekend, teams are arriving in Belgium with a raft of technical updates tailored to the demands of this legendary track.
Here’s a breakdown of the major changes introduced by each team ahead of the 2025 Belgian Grand Prix:
McLaren: New Low Downforce Rear Wing
McLaren has brought a circuit-specific low-downforce rear wing to Spa aimed at improving aerodynamic efficiency. The updated design offers better overall performance across a similar drag range and is expected to be usable at other high-speed venues on the calendar.
Ferrari: Rear Suspension Overhaul and Circuit-Specific Wing
Ferrari has introduced significant changes to the SF25, most notably a revised rear suspension setup. These alterations have led to redesigned wishbone fairings and new upper and lower winglets. The Scuderia has also fitted a new rear wing designed specifically for the Spa layout, aiming to maximise straight-line speed while maintaining rear-end stability.
Red Bull Racing: Front Wing and Cooling Package Updates
The RB21 sees aerodynamic upgrades at both ends. The front wing has been reworked with revised camber and incidence in the first two elements, while elements three and four have been modified to align with recent regulation adjustments. The team has also introduced changes to the sidepods to improve cooling, necessitating further updates to the front suspension and engine cover to optimise airflow.
Mercedes: Front Wing and Brake Duct Tweaks
Mercedes arrives in Spa with refinements to the W16’s front wing. The second element, the endplate, now features increased chord, while the forward element sees a reduction in chord to redistribute airflow for improved downforce. Additionally, the brake drum lip has been adjusted to generate more outwash and enhance wake control, contributing to more stable aerodynamic performance.
Aston Martin: Shorter Nose and Refined Front Wing
Aston Martin’s primary upgrade is a shortened nose for the AMR25, accompanied by changes to the front wing to enhance airflow management. These updates are designed to boost aerodynamic efficiency. Circuit-specific rear and beam wings have also been introduced for Spa.
Alpine: Low Downforce Rear and Beam Wings
Alpine has opted for minimal changes to the A525, bringing only a low downforce rear wing and beam wing combination tailored to Spa’s high-speed demands.
Racing Bulls: Rear Diffuser and Brake Duct Improvements
Racing Bulls have brought a new rear diffuser to Belgium, as well as redesigned rear brake duct winglets to improve airflow around the rear of the car. A circuit-specific rear wing rounds out the team’s update package.
Williams: Comprehensive Floor and Sidepod Package
Williams has introduced a major upgrade to the FW47. The team has unveiled a new floor featuring revised edges and fences, alongside updated sidepods and an engine cover to suit the floor’s new aerodynamic profile. This comprehensive package aims to significantly improve overall performance and airflow efficiency.
As teams continue to push development midway through the season, the 2025 Belgian Grand Prix offers a critical opportunity to test upgrades under real pressure. With Spa-Francorchamps’ demanding layout exposing any weaknesses and the unpredictable weather likely to mix things up, the stage is set for a weekend of surprises.
The 2025 Belgian Grand Prix takes place on a Sprint weekend format, adding further strategic complexity as teams attempt to get the most from limited practice time and with new technical developments in play across the grid, expect a compelling battle from start to finish in the heart of the Ardennes.
