If you’re one of the thousands of F1 fans hoping to skip straight to 2021, think again. 2021 will see cars being radically redesigned and fans are hoping this is the catalyst that will save the kind of racing we love and miss. To answer the question, will F1 become ‘fun’ again? well yes, but actually no.
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F1 2021 regulations
Every few years, Formula 1 regulations undergo a monumental change. These changes are implemented with the hope of improving racing and safety. 2021 will see a major overhaul of the current rules – including technical and sporting regulations. Racing Point technical director Andrew Green, however, feels the regulation changes will result in cars being less exciting to drive.
One of the key components of a Grand Prix car that’s sometimes overlooked is the weight. Over the years, Formula 1 cars have been getting heavier. A decade ago, F1 cars weighed just over 600 kilograms. In 2019, the minimum weight of a car stood at 740 kilograms, which is a colossal increase.
In 2019, F1 separated driver and car weight limits. This prevented ‘smaller’ drivers from gaining an advantage. Furthermore, The FIA set the minimum driver limit at 80 kilograms. This meant lighter drivers had to use a ballast to recover any remaining weight – to meet the limit.
2021 will see cars getting even heavier, with the minimum limit being set at 768kg. this is mainly due to the introduction of 18-inch tires, changes to the power unit and newer mechanisms being employed.
The weight of the matter
Speaking to Auto Motor und Sport, Green explained why 2021 cars won’t feel great to drive.
“We will clearly miss the weight limit. I don’t think it will be a great car to drive,
“I wanted something new, something exciting.
“We have to get a whole new generation excited about our sport. Otherwise, it won’t be around for long. But I don’t see anyone getting excited.”
Green also admitted that the new regulations were frangible and created multiple scenarios to gain an advantage. He also claimed F1 could see a repeat of Brawn GP’s genius.
In 2009, Brawn GP utilized a controversial double-decker diffuser which channeled air in a manner that created extra downforce. Teams disputed the innovation’s legality but the FIA deemed it legal.
In 2021 Formula 1 will take a plunge into the unknown and as fans, all we can do is wait.
