Key takeaways
- Floor overhaul: Ferrari and Alpine lead the technical updates at Zandvoort with extensive floor and diffuser redesigned packages aimed at increasing overall downforce.
- Targeted updates: McLaren introduced rear-end modifications to boost rear load, while Mercedes, Red Bull, and Aston Martin brought smaller, specific aerodynamic or cooling refinements.
- Six teams updating: A total of six teams officially declared technical upgrades with the FIA for the Dutch Grand Prix as the second half of the 2026 season begins.
The Dutch Grand Prix marks the start of the 2026 Formula 1 season’s second half, with teams continuing to push development pipelines on their respective chassis. For the Zandvoort round, six constructors submitted official technical update declarations to the FIA, with Ferrari and Alpine bringing the most extensive performance packages focused on floor aerodynamics.
Ferrari focused its engineering efforts on the underside of the SF-26. The Italian squad modified the floor body, edges, and plank to generate increased downforce across a wider ride-height window. Accompanying these floor revisions are tweaked diffuser geometries and a redesigned beam wing aimed at optimizing rear load generation.
Alpine arrived in the Netherlands with a comprehensive aerodynamic update for the A526. The Enstone-based outfit introduced a new floor body, redesigned sidepod bodywork, modified diffuser sidewalls, and an updated rear wing, seeking enhanced airflow quality over the upper surfaces and higher localized downforce.
Official team upgrade summary: Dutch GP 2026
- Ferrari: Redesigned floor body, floor edge, plank, diffuser sidewalls, and updated beam wing to increase overall aerodynamic load.
- Alpine: Modified floor, redesigned sidepods, updated diffuser, and revised rear wing assembly for better airflow management and local downforce.
- McLaren: Revised rear wing flap geometry, updated engine cover layout, and modified rear brake duct inlets to improve airflow efficiency and rear stability.
- Aston Martin: Updated front wing endplates and flaps (building on the Hungary specification), along with floor edge and diffuser tweaks to improve rear-end stability.
- Red Bull: Internal modifications to the front brake duct geometry focused on operational reliability and cooling efficiency.
- Mercedes: Minor front brake duct inlet adjustments aimed at optimizing local airflow distribution.
Formula 1 returns this weekend, from August 21 to 23, for the Dutch Grand Prix — the 12th round of the 2026 season. GRANDE PRÊMIO covers all the track action live from Zandvoort with reporter Leonid Kliuev. Follow all paddock updates on our news page.
Session schedule: Dutch Grand Prix 2026
| Session | Local time (CEST) | UTC |
| Free Practice 1 | Friday, August 21 – 12:30 | 10:30 |
| Free Practice 2 | Friday, August 21 – 16:00 | 14:00 |
| Free Practice 3 | Saturday, August 22 – 11:30 | 09:30 |
| Qualifying | Saturday, August 22 – 15:00 | 13:00 |
| Race | Sunday, August 23 – 15:00 | 13:00 |
Broadcast guide: Where to watch in the United States
- United States (Eastern Time / ET)
- Broadcaster: Apple TV
- Free Practice 1: Friday, August 21 – 06:30 ET
- Free Practice 2: Friday, August 21 – 10:00 ET
- Free Practice 3: Saturday, August 22 – 05:30 ET
- Qualifying: Saturday, August 22 – 09:00 ET
- Race: Sunday, August 23 – 09:00 ET
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
1. Which teams brought the most significant upgrades to the 2026 Dutch GP?
Ferrari and Alpine submitted the most substantial upgrade packages, both introducing completely revised floor bodies, floor edges, and diffusers.
2. Did Red Bull or Mercedes bring major aerodynamic upgrades to Zandvoort?
No. Red Bull and Mercedes brought minor, targeted updates primarily focused on front brake duct airflow and reliability rather than major bodywork revisions.
3. Did Haas, Williams, or Audi declare upgrades for this weekend?
No major performance upgrades were declared for Haas, Williams, or Audi for the Zandvoort race weekend.
