F1's minimum car weight is set to increase again to almost 800kg, following discussions between teams, RacingNews365.com understands. The car/driver minimum weight combination had already risen to 795kg for the 2022 season, with bigger wheels and an array of new safety features coming into play as part of the sport's regulation overhaul. However, it emerged at the first pre-season test in Barcelona that several teams were struggling to get down to the minimum weight , which would have a knock-on effect in terms of available ballast and car set-up. After a series of talks, the teams have agreed to an additional 3kg increase amongst themselves, bringing the total car weight up to 798kg, but this still needs to go through the F1 Commission and World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) for formal approval. The WMSC are due to meet on 18 March, the Friday of the season-opening Grand Prix weekend in Bahrain.
What have F1 teams said about car weight?
As F1 testing resumed in Bahrain this week, RacingNews365.com asked several team bosses for their thoughts on the issue. "Everybody's trying to find out how much the other [teams] are actually overweight," said Mercedes' Toto Wolff. "For us, it is part of the competition to reduce the weight. As long as it's the same for everybody, whether there is a weight reduction or not, we are we okay with it." Ferrari boss Mattia Binotto described the proposed 3kg increase as a "good compromise", but is keen to avoid cars getting any heavier. "Weight is never good for the sport and the speed; for the future, I think we should try to reduce or not increase the weight of the cars," he commented. Williams' Jost Capito added: "If somebody would be underweight, or on the limit, and then it would be changed, I think that wouldn't be fair, but as long as everybody's overweight, I think it's fine – as long as it's the same for everybody." F1's tightening budget cap for 2022 was also referenced, with teams' spending cut from $145 to $140 million, applying extra pressure in terms of material costs.
F1 teams could run 'stays' for floor safety
RacingNews365.com also understands that teams and the FIA are in discussions regarding 'stays' potentially being added to cars, attached to the floor. It comes amid concerns over the extreme forces generated by cars' new floors, following the move from over-body downforce to a ground effect philosophy – meaning downforce is predominantly generated by airflow under the car, sucking it down to the ground. The extra supports are set to be introduced up and down the grid as a security measure in the event of an on-track incident. Mercedes appear to already be running floor stays at the front and rear of the W13 at this week's test in Bahrain (as seen above).
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