The majority of Formula 1 teams are reportedly in favour of delaying the introduction of the 2021 regulations for one year in an effort to reduce costs during what is expected to be a difficult year.
Regulation changes planned for the 2021 campaign will see the biggest overhaul of the technical rules since the start of the World Championship in an effort to deliver closer racing and level the playing field.
Prior to the Covid-19 coronavirus outbreak, teams already faced a tough challenge for 2020 as they worked to balance both ’20 and ’21 development programs.
However with the current season set to see a reduced schedule, teams will see a massive drop in income which is tied to the number of races in a season. This means the teams will face a tough decision as to whether to abandon ’20 and focus entirely on ’21.
Nine of the 10 teams have agreed to postpone the changes and continue using their 2020 chassis until the end of the 2021 season, with only Ferrari not in agreement.
Along with the chassis, development of the gearbox and certain parts of the suspension will also be restricted. This will leave aerodynamics and the engine as the only areas open for development.
It is yet unclear if the first-ever set of financial regulations – effectively a budget cap – will remain in place for the 2021 season, however, there is a potential scenario where F1 and the FIA could reduce the $175m limit to help the smaller teams.
It’s expected more details will emerge in the coming weeks as F1 bosses hold crisis talks about how to proceed this year.
