FIA president aims for 150 kg lighter F1 cars by 2031
FIA president Ben Sulayem has set a target to reduce the weight of Formula 1 cars to 630 kg by 2031, which would be 150 kg less than the current minimum. To achieve this, he plans to simplify engines with a lower share of electrification, while Pirelli has extended its tire supply contract until 2028.
FIA president Ben Sulayem has stated that his goal is to see Formula 1 cars weighing less than 650 kg by 2031, with an ideal target of 630 kg. Currently, the minimum weight of F1 cars is 768 kg, meaning a reduction of approximately 150 kg.
Sulayem believes that the current heavy cars negatively affect safety, noting that a large and heavy car is not safe. To achieve this weight reduction while maintaining safety standards, he sees the need for simpler engines. Future regulations are expected to reduce the role of electric components, leading to lighter batteries. Electrification would account for only about 10% of total power, allowing the use of V8 internal combustion engines with around 760 horsepower.
According to Sulayem, such an engine would be significantly cheaper in terms of production, research, and development, and would also bring back the sound that fans love.
Meanwhile, Italian tire manufacturer Pirelli has extended its contract as the Formula 1 tire supplier until the end of 2028, using an available one-year option. Pirelli replaced Bridgestone in this role in 2011, and the current contract also covers the F2 and F3 series, as well as the F1 Academy. Additionally, Dario Marafuschi has recently taken over the role of head of motorsport from Mario Isola, becoming the brand's representative in the F1 paddock.
