According to reports, the active aerodynamics of Formula 1 for the 2026 regulations are undergoing changes due to concerning findings in simulations. The upcoming changes in power unit regulations, finalized in 2022, aimed to achieve a 50/50 power split between internal combustion and electric components in hybrid engines. This shift towards sustainability was intended to attract new engine manufacturers, including Audi. However, increased electrification in the new power units raised concerns about energy recovery and conservation. The FIA hoped that active aerodynamics would address these concerns, but simulations revealed significant issues with the initial plan for a movable rear wing. As a result, rule makers are reassessing their approach.
Initially, the plan was for the rear wing to have a high aerodynamic pressure configuration in corners and then switch to a low resistance configuration on straights, along with the use of DRS. However, when teams tested these configurations in simulators, they found a severe shift in aerodynamic balance when transitioning from corners to straights. This shift was found to be three times more extreme than the effect of DRS, putting drivers at risk of spinning out when accelerating on straights. In response to these findings, the FIA decided to include movable front and rear wings in the design.
The new plan is based on the theory that changing the aerodynamic balance in the front and rear of the car will make the transition more manageable for drivers, reducing the risks involved. By implementing this change, the FIA hopes to find a solution that maintains the desired performance and safety standards for Formula 1.
The aerodynamic rules for 2026 are expected to be formulated by the end of June this year. Teams will not be allowed to start working on the chassis and bodywork of 2026 until the beginning of next year, allowing a 12-month preparation period. In addition, wind tunnel and CFD evaluations on the 2026 cars will be integrated into the cost cap regulations for 2025. Pierre Wache, Technical Director of Red Bull, has already expressed his concerns regarding the upcoming technical regulations. In an interview with Autosport, he conveyed his concern that the FIA has not fully considered the complete concept of these new regulations simultaneously. He further stated that the engine regulations were initially set and now they have to deal with the chassis side to compensate for that. Christian Horner, the Team Principal, also shared his thoughts with the publication, expressing that there has been progress and the FIA has taken into account some feedback, resulting in certain modifications. He emphasized the importance of finalizing the chassis regulations, as they will be a crucial component of the 2026 package and its interaction with the power units. Several working groups are diligently working on this issue, and it is imperative that a resolution be reached in the near future.
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Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton made a bold statement during a recent interview. Hamilton claimed that he is the greatest driver of all time and is determined to prove it. He also expressed his desire to continue competing for many years.
Hamilton, who currently races for the Mercedes team, has an impressive history in Formula 1. He has won seven world championships and is considered one of the greatest drivers in the sport’s history. However, some critics argue that his success is mainly due to the superior Mercedes car.
In response to these criticisms, Hamilton said: “I understand that people may think my success is only because of the car, but I believe I am the best driver of all time, regardless of the car I am driving. I am here to prove that.”
Hamilton also spoke about his passion for competition and his determination to keep racing. “I love Formula 1 and I can’t imagine doing anything else. I am here to compete and win, and I will continue to do so as long as I am having fun and being competitive,” he stated.
The British driver also mentioned his future goals, including the possibility of breaking Michael Schumacher’s record of seven world championships. “I definitely have that record in mind and I am working hard to achieve it. It would be an honor to surpass what Schumacher achieved,” said Hamilton.
However, Hamilton acknowledged that the competition in Formula 1 is becoming increasingly fierce, with young talents emerging every season. “Formula 1 is always evolving and there are many talented drivers out there. I cannot underestimate the competition, but I am confident in my abilities and my place in the sport’s history,” Hamilton concluded.
With his bold statement, Hamilton has certainly stirred up the world of Formula 1. Fans and experts are now eager to see if he can prove that he is truly the greatest driver of all time.
