Drivers to regain ‘full control’

Editor

Drivers will be handed back more control of their cars in the coming weeks with "full control" expected in 2016.

The F1 Strategy Group met earlier this week in Biggin Hill to discuss the various proposals put forward at the previous meeting.

In what has been billed as a "very constructive meeting", Formula 1 is now set to see at least some immediate changes.

As of this year's Belgian GP, there will be a stricter limitations on driver aids and coaching which, in 2016, will lead to drivers having "full control" of the cars.

"Increased restrictions on driver aids and coaching received unanimous support and will be rapidly implemented, starting from this year's Belgian Grand Prix – with a particular emphasis on race starts – and in 2016," read an FIA statement.

"These measures will bring back the driver in full control of the car, enhancing races excitement and unpredictability."

Added to that, the Strategy Group has agreed to overhaul of the power unit penalties.

This "will be submitted to the F1 Commission via an express fax vote for an adoption at the World Motorsport Council in Mexico City next week, together with changes to the exhaust system that will improve engine noise for 2016.

"Furthermore, it was agreed to allow an extra power unit per driver in the first year to any new manufacturer entering the championship and, for the sake of fairness, the measure will apply retroactively to Honda for the 2015 season."

The Strategy Group also confirmed that there will be "increased freedom" of choice for tyre compounds for 2016 while "several exciting and innovative changes to the qualifying and race weekend formats have also been discussed and are being evaluated by FIA and FOM for a 2016 introduction."

And, finally, a "new set of regulations aimed at achieving faster and more aggressive looking cars for 2017, to include wider cars and wheels, new wings and floor shape and significantly increased aerodynamic downforce has been outlined and is currently being assessed by the teams."