Williams’ recent upgrades to their FW46 Formula 1 car, including aerodynamic improvements and weight reduction, have shown promising results despite a regulation issue at Zandvoort. The team remains optimistic about the potential of these upgrades and is looking to capitalize on them in the upcoming races.
Browsing: Weight Reduction
In an exclusive interview with Autosport, Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali discusses the 2024 season’s unpredictable outcomes, the 2026 regulation changes, and his vision for reducing the weight of F1 cars. Domenicali shares his insights on the future direction of the sport, balancing innovation and competitive balance.
With Williams languishing this Formula 1 season, the team has unveiled a three-pronged upgrade plan to revitalize their 2024 campaign. The upgrades, set to debut after the summer break, aim to address the car’s aerodynamics, suspension, and weight issues. As the team shifts focus to 2025 and beyond, these changes could be the catalyst for a stronger second half of 2023 and a resurgent 2024 season.
Williams Formula 1 driver Alex Albon has expressed his willingness to sacrifice the team’s 2025 season to ensure they are in the best possible position for the 2026 rules reset. This strategic approach comes after Albon extended his contract with Williams for at least two more years.
The FIA has set a target to reduce the weight of the 2026 Formula 1 cars by a substantial 30kg, from the current 798kg to just 768kg. While some drivers and teams have expressed doubts about the achievability of this goal, the governing body remains confident that the weight-loss objective is feasible through collaborative efforts with the motorsports industry.
F1 champion Max Verstappen has voiced concerns over the planned 30kg weight reduction in the 2025-26 regulations, warning that it may not be enough to significantly improve the driving experience. He suggests a more substantial cut of at least 100-150kg would be necessary to make the cars more agile and enjoyable to drive.
Several Formula 1 team bosses have voiced their concerns regarding the draft 2026 technical regulations, stating that the current proposal may not deliver the outlined ambitions of the sport. The FIA has released an initial proposal for the next rules overhaul, aiming to introduce lighter, smaller cars to improve the overall racing spectacle. However, team bosses believe that changes are required to achieve the desired objectives.
Just a day after the FIA unveiled its 2026 Formula 1 car design concept, teams have begun voicing concerns over the proposed changes, including aerodynamics, weight reduction, and active aero systems. The teams are pushing for more discussion and collaboration with the governing body to ensure the new regulations enhance the sport for drivers, teams, and fans.
Fernando Alonso, the double World Champion, has voiced doubts about the FIA’s ambitious plan to cut 30kg from 2026 Formula 1 cars, labeling it an ‘impossible target’. The article delves into the challenges facing the sport as it aims to balance weight reduction, increased electrical components, and driver freedom in the upcoming regulation changes.
Lewis Hamilton has voiced his concerns over the 30kg weight reduction for the 2026 Formula 1 cars, arguing that more substantial weight loss is needed to improve sustainability and performance. Haas driver Nico Hulkenberg shares Hamilton’s sentiments, highlighting the potential impact of reduced downforce on high-speed corners.