F1 divided over 2019 rule changes

Williams technical chief Paddy Lowe has weighed in on the newest changes to F1. The changes which include simplified front wings and bigger rear wings have been the source of pessimism from within the paddock with some claiming that there will be no noticeable difference to racing according to early simulations.

Formula One will undergo significant changes in 2019 with the aims of aiding overtaking. By reducing dirty air given off by complex wings and aerodynamic features, F1 will hopefully see an increase in overtaking and head-to-head racing next season.

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner and head of driver development Dr Helmut Marko have indicated that early suggestions from simulations point to no tangible effect on dirty air, a worrying sign for the racing.

Lowe also weighed in on the aero changes as well as changes to fuel. Limits on the amount of fuel have been increased from 105kg to 110kg per race, a change which the Williams man believes will make very little difference in 2019.

“It seems to be popular to say the aerodynamic changes that we’re making won’t make any difference.

“But I can tell you for sure it’ll make a lot more difference than the fuel limit.

“I don’t believe it’s going to make any difference to anything. That’s my opinion.

“You put in fuel that makes sense for your race. That’s always been done, and it always involves a bit of fuel saving. Cars are often doing what we call ‘lift and coast’.

“They do it for tyres more than fuel as well. There might be the odd race where it makes a little bit of difference.”