Analysis - Sochi tech round-up

As the majority of teams continue preparations for implementing their first major upgrade package of the season in Spain later this month, we take a look at some of the developments trialed in Russia over the weekend, with the help of renowned technical illustrator Giorgio Piola...

Toro Rosso STR11 - rear wing revisions

Toro Rosso again used the rear wing introduced at the previous round in China, though of course with a higher downforce set-up in order to cope with the differing demands of the Sochi Autodrom. The most obvious change is the two horizontal gills in the upper part of the endplate, compared to the four seen in Shanghai.

Ferrari SF16-H - front wing updates

Both Sebastian Vettel and Kimi Raikkonen tested this new front wing configuration in a back-to-back comparison with the previous version (inset). The changes start from the wing’s leading red flap, but become more visible in the white ones behind, with an additional slot to create more downforce.

McLaren MP4-31 - sidepod turning vanes

In Sochi the McLaren featured these new vertical turning vanes, with an L-shaped vane (red arrow) attached to the top of the sidepod, as is the recent trend. The team’s front wing also received an additional fin in its upper flap section.

Mercedes F1 W07 Hybrid - front wing endplate

Seen at Mercedes in Russia was this very innovative and complex endplate for the front wing. Ultimately the team decided not to run it and postponed its debut until the Spanish round in two weeks’ time, where it will form part of a bigger aero package update.