The FIA has set an ambitious goal for the future of Formula 1: to make vehicles 80 kg lighter. This new target is part of the regulations that will be introduced in 2031, which also aim to simplify the engines used in competitions.
The latest modifications introduced by the FIA have already been an important step in the right direction. For the 2026 season, the minimum weight of the vehicles has been reduced to 768 kg, representing a decrease of 32 kg compared to the previous season. Additionally, the dimensions of the cars have been adjusted, now being 20 cm shorter and 10 cm narrower.
Despite the improvements, the discussion surrounding engines and energy management has overshadowed the debate about changes in the chassis. Nikolas Tombazis, director of single-seater vehicles at the FIA, maintains that the new regulations are a step forward. According to him, current vehicles allow for better competitiveness among drivers, highlighting that it is possible to follow other vehicles on track more closely.
Tombazis believes that drivers’ skills will continue to be a key factor in the sport, despite changes in aerodynamic regulations aimed at preventing teams from exploiting the rules to gain an unfair advantage.
For now, the FIA is pleased with this first stage of reforms. Although it would like to see lighter and smaller vehicles in the future, the positive response from drivers to the new dimensions is an indication of the right path taken. ‘It really is only them who have to experience the vehicle and make it work at its best’, Tombazis concluded.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI