Formula 1 is reportedly considering a switch to larger wheel rims as part of its major 2021 regulation change, which is set to completely overhaul the sport under Liberty Media's long-term plan for the future of F1.
Included in the '2021 Vision' is a new engine formula aimed at bringing in new manufacturers, a budget cap, revised aerodynamic regulations to increase overtaking, a new revenue-share model and weekend format changes which could see the introduction of a Saturday sprint race to determine the grid.
Whilst a switch to 18-inch wheels from the current 13 inches might seem inconsequential, it would have a major impact on the look of the cars as well as the suspension layout.
F1's sole tyre supplier Pirelli has been keen to make the switch, but failed in its efforts in 2015 to convince team bosses it was the right move. The tyre manufacturer claims that bigger rims have more in common with current road car technology. They are currently used in Formula E and the World Endurance Championship.
The FIA's Charlie Whiting confirmed the switch is being discussed as part of the planned 2021 rules change: "It is part of the package that we are discussing," he said.
Pirelli CEO Marco Tronchetti Provera also discussed the matter in Monaco and said the Italian company is ready to make the switch, but hinted that it wasn't key to Pirelli remaining in the sport, with its current deal ending in 2019.
"We are open [to it]," he said. "They have to find the right regulation, and have the teams ready to adopt it.
"There are a number of issues of aerodynamics, of suspension and so on. When the teams are ready, we are ready.
"For us it is always [a matter of] technology. We are happy with 13-inch [tyres], we are happy with 18-inch. The bigger they are, the better it is. But the technological challenges are different."
