2019 regulations: Force India impressed by the means of its rivals

Adopted by a narrow majority on April 30, the modifications are based on the work carried out jointly by the FIA ​​and Liberty Media, holder of the commercial rights, as well as 8 of the 10 teams entered in the world championship. The latter only had a couple of weeks to conduct their research following the Bahrain Grand Prix.

« We made our contribution, did what we could, and submitted our results to the FIA, revealed Andy Green, technical director of Force India. In 15 days, we have barely scratched the surface. The data we received elsewhere was anonymous but we were able to consult it.

The level of detail that certain teams were able to provide in such a short time is simply incredible. We looked at what others did and said to ourselves: 'Damn, it's the equivalent of a month of work for us, minimum.. We can't compete with that. Given their firepower, we were envious ».

The 2019 changes received mixed reactions before and after getting the green light. Several stables, including Red Bull et Renault, thus underlined the lack of maturity of the proposals and the tight timing in which they were presented and then voted on. Opponents also believe that the introduction of a simplified front wing, redesigned front brake ducts, and a wider rear wing will lead to additional costs, caused by the need for a new car.

« With the fuel limit increasing to 110 kg per race, we had to build a new chassis anyway, against Green. So from that point on, we're happy to adapt to any further changes. And the decision to change the regulations around the quantity of gasoline was taken... by (Christian) Horner (Red Bull Racing main team, Editor’s note).”

The technical director of Force India also considers it appropriate to have a taste of what the regulatory upheavals expected for 2021 could bring.

« This is the best opportunity to see if we are moving in the right direction or not, without waiting for 2021 », concludes Green.