An analysis by former Fórmula 1 pilot, Johnny Herbert, suggests that Max Verstappen’s current dominance could be seriously challenged with the introduction of the new technical regulation. Segundo Herbert, who currently serves as commissioner, the Dutch driver’s adaptation to the drastically different car may not be immediate, opening the door to a new competitive dynamic on the grid.
F1 is preparing for the biggest technical revolution in decades, with changes that affect everything from aerodynamics to the power unit. The objective is to create more agile, sustainable cars that promote closer races, but this transition represents a blank slate for all teams and drivers, including the current three-time world champion.
Herbert drew a parallel with the difficulties faced by Lewis Hamilton in 2022, when Mercedes was unable to correctly interpret the ground effect regulation. The situation serves as a reminder that even the most talented pilots are vulnerable to profound technological changes, and adaptation is a crucial factor for success.
Details of the new technical era of the category
The guidelines for the new Fórmula 1 cars aim for a complete transformation of the single-seater concept, with a focus on agility and sustainability. One of the most significant changes is the weight reduction, with the cars becoming 30 kilos lighter, reaching a minimum of 768 kilos. Essa change, combined with a wheelbase shortened by 20 centimeters and a width reduced by 10 centimeters, will result in vehicles that are noticeably more compact and agile. The FIA seeks to improve the maneuverability of cars on street circuits and facilitate wheel-to-wheel competitions. The floor will also be revised to generate downforce more efficiently and less reliant on clean air, which will theoretically allow the cars to follow each other more closely without losing aerodynamic performance. Essa “agile car” philosophy is a direct response to criticism about the increasing size and weight of current generation cars, which have made overtaking more difficult on certain tracks.
The active aerodynamics revolution
For the first time in the history of the category, active aerodynamics will be implemented on a large scale, representing a considerable technological leap. The cars’ front and rear wings will be movable, automatically adjusting between different modes to optimize performance. In high-speed corners, they will assume a high downforce configuration for maximum grip, while on straights they will switch to a low drag mode, increasing top speed.
This technology replaces the current Sistema of Redução of Arrasto (DRS), which has a more limited application. The new integrated approach will require drivers to manage these modes in a more complex way, adapting the car’s behavior to each section of the circuit. The implementation aims to create a more dynamic balance between cornering performance and straight-line speed, making car configuration an even greater challenge for engineers.
Saying goodbye to DRS and the new overtaking strategy
With the introduction of active aerodynamics, DRS will be officially retired. In its place comes the “Manual Override Mode” (Ultrapassagem Manual Mode), a system that will provide an extra boost of electrical energy to the pilot who is chasing an opponent. Este mode can be activated when a car is less than a second away from the rival ahead, similar to the DRS detection zone, but with a different effect.
The system is designed to work in conjunction with active aerodynamics. Enquanto the lead car will maintain its standard aerodynamic configuration to defend itself, the chasing car can use the electrical boost to gain a temporary power advantage. The FIA hopes this combination will result in more strategic and natural overtaking manoeuvres, rather than simply “passes” on long straights.
The system’s parameters have been carefully calibrated in simulations to prevent overtaking from becoming too easy, whilst maintaining the challenge for drivers. The expectation is that this new tactical tool will increase the number of direct disputes during races and add a new layer of complexity to the teams’ strategies.
Radical transformation of power units
The power units will undergo one of their biggest redesigns. The energy will be divided equally, with 50% coming from the internal combustion engine and 50% from the electrical system. Isso represents an increase of almost 300% in electrical power compared to current engines.
One of the most notable changes is the removal of the MGU-H (Engine Generator Unit – Heat), a complex and expensive component responsible for recovering energy from turbo heat. Sua elimination simplifies the engine architecture, making it more accessible to new manufacturers, such as Audi and Ford, who will join the grid.
The total power of the cars will remain at a level close to 1,000 horsepower, but the way this power is delivered and managed will be completely different. The emphasis on energy recovery through braking (MGU-K) will be even greater, making battery management a decisive element in races.
Finally, F1 will take a crucial step towards sustainability with the introduction of 100% synthetic and sustainable fuels. Produzidos from non-fossil sources, these fuels were designed to have zero net carbon emissions, without compromising the performance of high-performance engines.
The parallel with the difficulty of Hamilton in 2022
Johnny Herbert’s warning about Max Verstappen finds support in recent events from Fórmula 1. Lewis Hamilton, seven-time world champion, visibly suffered from the phenomenon of “porpoising”, violent bouncing of the car at high speed that compromised his performance and confidence.
That year, his teammate, George Russell, managed to adapt more consistently to the car’s unstable behavior, surpassing Hamilton in the final championship standings. Esse practical example demonstrates how a regulation change can level the playing field and challenge even the most decorated pilots, who need to relearn techniques and adjust to new riding dynamics.
New manufacturers and the reorganization of forces
The entry of new engine manufacturers, such as Audi and Ford (in partnership with Red Bull Powertrains), promises to increase competition and unpredictability. The Red Bull, in particular, will face the unprecedented challenge of developing its own chassis and power unit simultaneously, a complex undertaking that will test the team’s technical capability. The arrival of giants in the automobile industry raises the level of investment and technology, potentially altering the power hierarchy established in recent years.
The human factor in pilots’ adaptation
Although technology is the focus of the new rules, the human factor will be more decisive than ever. The Max Verstappen’s aggressive and precise driving style, perfectly suited to current cars, may require significant adjustments to get the most out of the new concept. The way cars will generate downforce and the need to manage electrical energy more actively will demand a new sensitivity from drivers.
Herbert speculates that pilots like Lando Norris, known for their ability to adapt, could benefit from this transition. The learning curve will be steep for everyone, and the drivers who can understand and explore the limits of the new equipment most quickly will gain a crucial competitive advantage, especially in the early races of the season.
The pre-season and the initial stages of the championship will be essential for teams and drivers to decipher the secrets of the new regulations. Erros of configuration or interpretation of the rules can be costly and define the course of the championship before it even starts, making flexibility and the ability to react essential attributes for success.