Formula 1 Seeks lighter cars, departing from the current tradition. The current weight of Formula 1 cars stands at a minimum of 798 kilograms, much to the disappointment of drivers and fans alike. However, the FIA and Formula 1 are determined to reverse this trend and introduce lighter cars once again as some say that the heavy weight cars could become “too dangerous”.
In an exclusive interview, FIA President Mohammed bin Sulayem emphasizes the need for lighter cars, acknowledging the challenge it presents but noting the unanimous desire for this change.
“Coming from motorsport, where lighter cars are safer and more fuel-efficient,” he explains, “I am pushing for it because I come from rallying, where heavy cars are a detriment.”
“We need a lighter car,” FIA President Mohammed bin Sulayem makes clear in an exclusive interview. “It will be difficult to achieve, but everyone wants it,” the 61-year-old stresses.
Bin Sulayem, a former rally driver with numerous championships under his belt, believes that lighter cars would benefit Formula 1 as well. However, achieving this goal may prove difficult considering the complexity of modern-day cars.
F1 boss agrees with weight loss
Formula 1 boss Stefano Domenicali also recognizes the unnatural heaviness of current Formula 1 cars, attributing the weight increase to technological advancements. With the new regulations set to be implemented in 2026, Domenicali reveals that weight reduction is a topic of discussion for the future.
Domenicali states, “The current high weight is not in line with the essence of Formula 1.” He believes that the weight issue must be addressed, aligning with Mercedes driver George Russell’s concerns about safety.
While Formula 1 continuously strives to enhance safety measures, Russell, a director of the drivers’ union (GPDA), points out that accidents become increasingly hazardous as cars become heavier. He explains that the impact of a collision at the same speed is far greater with cars weighing 800 or 900 kilograms compared to the 650-kilogram cars of 15 years ago.
Russell wants change
Russell highlights another disadvantage of the current cars’ weight: their performance at low speeds is not optimal. He expresses his desire for lighter cars in the future, emphasizing the benefits it would bring in all aspects.
“If you drive the same speed at the beginning of a race with a car weighing 800 or 900 kilograms, there is a bigger impact than 15 years ago when the cars weighed only 650 kilograms,” the Mercedes driver explains.
“I’m sure there’s analysis to find the right balance, because I don’t know where the line is drawn,” he says, adding, “You eventually get to a point where you cross that line that too heavy isn’t also safer.”
Whether achieving lighter cars is feasible remains to be seen, but the industry is actively exploring ways to strike the right balance between safety, performance, and weight in Formula 1.
