FIA insist new Formula 1 rules don’t need a ‘complete rewrite’

As has been widely known for weeks, the FIA has stepped in following heavy criticism of the new regulations across the opening three races, scheduling a series of meetings from Suzuka onwards, one of which already took place on April 9, with a decisive session set to follow on the 20th.

Speaking to The Guardian, the Greek engineer played down the scale of the changes being discussed, suggesting the situation does not require a complete overhaul but rather minor adjustments, likening it to a patient who does not need intensive care or surgery, but simply small, regular improvements.

“It’s not like we’re discussing a complete rewrite. We believe the patient is not in intensive care; the patient needs to just eat a couple of apples per day, not to have an open-heart surgery.”

Tombazis admitted there are still issues to address from both a drivability and safety perspective, stressing that while improvements are clearly needed, the situation should not be portrayed as a complete failure. He pointed out that fans have generally enjoyed the racing so far, but acknowledged that specific factors behind the recent accident must be resolved, adding that several drivers have also flagged areas where the current rules could be improved.

After the meeting, the FIA confirmed that two further sessions will be held to reach final decisions, something that has been expected for some time. These are scheduled to take place before the Miami Grand Prix, meaning any changes could already come into effect for the next Formula 1 round.

The discussion also touched on the ADUO system (Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities), which governs how much in-season development freedom power unit manufacturers are granted, with several checkpoints built in to assess and compare engine performance.