Cadillac unveils first major F1 upgrade ahead of Miami GP

Cadillac rolls out its first major upgrade package to the 2026 Formula 1 season at the Miami Grand Prix, with a new floor at the core. The car has struggled with a down‑force deficit all year, so the nine‑part aero‑mechanical overhaul aims to add load and shave weight, hoping to turn the performance delta into points.

Why it matters:

• Down‑force has been Cadillac’s biggest weakness; the new floor and related aero work should add load across the speed range.
• On a sprint‑format weekend, any performance delta can be the difference between a points finish and obscurity.
• Weight‑saving tweaks on brake drums and brackets complement the aero gains, boosting tyre wear and fuel efficiency.

The details:

• Front wing endplate & flap – reshaped profile adds front‑end downforce.
• Mirror stay & forward floorboard – slimmer stay reduces drag; added curvature improves under‑floor suction.
• Floor body & diffuser – revised venturi tunnels boost efficiency and rear‑end grip.
• Rear suspension & corner – updated kinematics and refined side‑pod inlet enhance load and airflow.
• Exhaust tailpipe bracket – repositioned for optimal exhaust‑flow interaction.

What's next:

• The team will assess lap‑time gains during the extended 90‑minute FP1 and the sprint race.
• If the floor delivers the expected downforce, Cadillac could target its first points finish of the season in Miami.
• Further refinements are slated for the next European round, with data from Miami feeding into the 2026 development cycle.