RED BULL TO BRING SECOND MAJOR UPGRADE OF 2026 IN AUSTRIA - WHAT TO EXPECT

Red Bull will unleash its second major 2026 upgrade package in Austria, aiming to close the gap to rivals Ferrari and Mercedes. Team Principal Laurent Mekies confirms this is their "next big one," following Ferrari's effective Barcelona upgrade that powered Lewis Hamilton to victory. Red Bull’s earlier Miami package, which included redesigned sidepods and a unique rotary rear wing, reportedly halved their deficit to the frontrunners. However, Mekies estimates the team still needs a crucial four tenths per lap to consistently fight for victories.

A significant focus for the Austria upgrade is likely further weight reduction. Red Bull remains above the regulatory minimum weight of 768kg, a target they aimed to hit with this very package. While Mekies joked about the weight topic post-Barcelona, reaching that minimum could provide a tangible performance boost. Red Bull struggled in Barcelona, finishing fourth, highlighting their current car's weaknesses on certain track layouts. This next package is critical for their trajectory against a resurgent Ferrari and the ever-present threat of Mercedes.