Technical updates: 2026 Chinese Grand Prix

Ferrari is the only one of the top four teams to bring a new component to the Chinese Grand Prix, while Formula 1 newcomer Cadillac has also introduced upgrades.

The three pre-season tests enabled teams to try out a number of new parts without having to declare if they are specifically racing them for the first time, including Ferrari’s “flip flop” rear wing that turns through 180 degrees when opening up in Straight Mode. The one new part listed by Ferrari is an additional winglet on the front of its halo, near the base of the structure, that the team says simply returns a small aerodynamic load benefit.

Racing Bulls has updated its rear brake duct winglet, while at Haas there is also a small winglet added to its rear crash structure that creates upwash and increases local load.

More significant new parts are delivered by the new teams, with the rebranded Audi introducing a new nose and front wing that work in tandem with each other. A new flap and end plate design on the front wing improves the airflow traveling downstream, providing a benefit both on the front end and throughout the global car performance.

Although Cadillac is still establishing itself as an F1 team, it has brought upgrades to just its second race, with the diffuser targeted for a performance gain. The development focuses on the trailing edge of the diffuser, improving local aerodynamic load across the rear of the car.

There is also a structural improvement made to the mirror stays on the Cadillac, leading to a slight aerodynamic surface revision to make the component more robust.

Teams have just one practice session to analyze any upgrades introduced in Shanghai, with the Sprint format making for a qualifying session in place of FP2 on Friday afternoon.