Red Bull has introduced a new feature on the leading edge of the floor along the sidepods. Under the current technical regulations, the number of permitted vertical fences is limited to five. At the same time, the FIA has regulated this area to minimize the outwash effect and overly aggressive vortex structures.
On the RB 22, the first element near the chassis has become a true flow splitter, designed to work in synergy with the keel, while the other four elements increase the airflow underneath the car.
The role of these small vertical appendages is to generate vortices, each with a precisely defined in its position. These elements reduce the local pressure and influence rear downforce generation, where the last outer fence also plays a role in creating outwash.
In the drawing, it is also possible to notice recesses at the base of the T-tray. The function of these solutions is still uncertain, but they could serve to further reduce local pressure, indirectly increasing the floor’s suction toward the ground.
In the drawing of the Red Bull front wing, two small fences indicated by arrows can be seen. At the end of the footplate, a small flow deflector is attached to recreate the outwash effect. With the 2026 regulations, front wings are reduced in width, aligning with the inner shoulder of the tire.
The small device in attempts to generate an outward-directed vortex, whose action adds to the work carried out by the endplate in controlling tyre squirt and the turbulence generated by the rolling tire.
However, the innovative solution concerns the small flap positioned behind the wing flaps. In theory, it is meant to manage the airflow passing inside the tire. This element should also influence the downstream flow. It remains to be seen whether the team will use this component, as it may be subject to negative vibrations.
At the rear of the Red Bull, we notice a very interesting detail relating to the diffuser corner. Interestingly, Mercedes has also introduced an identical solution, clearly aimed at optimizing diffuser efficiency.
