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 of 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 downforce configuration in corners and then switch to a low drag 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 at 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.
Les règles aérodynamiques pour 2026 doivent être formulées d’ici la fin juin de cette année. Il ne sera pas permis aux équipes de commencer à travailler sur le châssis et la carrosserie de 2026 avant le début de l’année prochaine, permettant ainsi un délai de 12 mois pour la préparation. De plus, les évaluations en soufflerie et CFD des voitures de 2026 seront intégrées aux réglementations de limite de coûts pour 2025. Pierre Wache, Directeur Technique de Red Bull, a déjà exprimé ses appréhensions concernant les prochaines réglementations techniques. Lors d’une interview avec Autosport, il a fait part de ses préoccupations selon lesquelles la FIA n’a pas pleinement pris en compte le concept complet de ces nouvelles réglementations simultanément. Il a également déclaré que les réglementations des moteurs ont été définies initialement et qu’ils doivent maintenant traiter de la question du côté du châssis pour compenser cela. Christian Horner, le Directeur de l’Équipe, a également partagé ses réflexions avec la publication, exprimant qu’il y a eu des progrès et que la FIA a pris en compte certains retours, ce qui a entraîné certaines modifications. Il a souligné l’importance de finaliser les réglementations du châssis, car elles seront un composant crucial du package de 2026 et de son interaction avec les groupes motopropulseurs. Plusieurs groupes de travail travaillent diligemment sur cette question, et il est impératif qu’une résolution soit trouvée dans un avenir proche.
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Le pilote de Formule 1, Lewis Hamilton, a fait une déclaration audacieuse lors d’une récente interview. Hamilton a affirmé qu’il est le meilleur pilote de tous les temps et qu’il est déterminé à le prouver. Il a également exprimé son désir de continuer à compétitionner pendant de nombreuses années.
Hamilton, who currently races for the Mercedes team, has an impressive track record 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 skills and my place in the sport’s history, » Hamilton concluded.
With his bold statement, Hamilton has certainly caused a stir in 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.
