F1 2021 regulations finally revealed

This is undoubtedly the most anticipated press conference of 2019 in Formula 1. Thursday October 31, in the paddock of Austin (Texas), Ross Brawn, Motor Sports director of Liberty Media, Chase Carey, CEO of the Formula One Group, the President of the International Automobile Federation (FIA) Jean Todt, via video-conference, and Nikolas Tombazis, head of the FIA ​​series at the Federation, unveiled the 2021 regulations that everyone has been talking about for two years. 

Jean Todt confirmed that the regulations had been approved by all the teams present. The 3D renderings allow you to get a clear idea of ​​the design of the cars in 2021:

Say hello to the future of F1

The countdown to 2021 starts now…#F12021 pic.twitter.com/zpBznBzpyx

- Formula 1 (@ F1) October 31, 2019

Compared to the first version unveiled in August 2019, we note the appearance of faired rims, in a spirit reminiscent of the single-seaters of the late 2000s. The front and rear wings are modified, giving an even more aggressive look when viewed from the front. The rear oar posts are beveled and face towards the center of the hull. 

The sidepods are more curved and are emptied of the countless aerodynamic elements added since 2017. Finally, two fins are incorporated on the front axle.

This new type of F1 should allow a loss of support of 10% compared to the 2019 versions. This will create less disruption for the car following. The objective of the governing bodies is thus to increase the spectacle on the track and to narrow the gaps by returning to ground effect.

Tombazis announces a mass increasing by 25 kg in 2021, from 743 kg currently to 768 kg. An increase due in particular to the wheels which will be wider with the transition to 18-inch tires #F1

— AUTOhebdo.fr (@autohebdo) October 31, 2019

Another important part of this regulation, budget capping. This one is promised at 175 million dollars per season. A laudable decision but also criticized by Team principals such as Christian Horner (Red Bull). 

This budget could, however, be increased to $1 million per race if the calendar increases to more than 21 Grands Prix per season!

Nikolas Tombazis assures that the next regulations #F12021 still allow a certain aerodynamic freedom. Some teams were afraid that the sport would transform into GP1 with identical cars. #F1 pic.twitter.com/sBina7NQth

— AUTOhebdo.fr (@autohebdo) October 31, 2019

“We deeply respect the DNA of F1, assures Chase Carey. It is an association of competitive sports, talented and courageous pilots, dedicated teams and cutting-edge technology. The goal has always been to improve the competition and the action on the track as well as to make the sport healthier and to make it an attractive business for everyone. 

#RSspirit #F12021
*Images for illustrative purpose only pic.twitter.com/y4LqfD3zdc

— Renault F1 Team (@RenaultF1Team) October 31, 2019

These new rules emerged after a two-year process, examining technical, sporting and financial issues in order to develop a set of solutions. »

The parts are divided into 5 categories: listed (each stable must produce them itself), standard (single supplier chosen after call for tenders), prescribed (defined concept, free supply), transferable (from one stable to another). other) and open source #F12021

— AUTOhebdo.fr (@autohebdo) October 31, 2019

Additionally, Ross Brawn announces a condensed 3-day weekend format with the disappearance of the Thursday media day. THE maximum number of races increases to 25, which would be unheard of in the history of the competition.

On the factory side, F1 plans to reduce wind tunnel testing time as well as the number of CFD (computer) simulations. Restrictions on engine benches will also be applied.

Find out in AUTO issue 2241hebdo, available from Monday evening digitally and Wednesday on newsstands, the analysis of the 2021 regulations by our special correspondents in Austin.