Red Bull does the math on 2019 front wing, and comes up short

40

Contrary to predictions, Red Bull motorsport boss Helmut Marko is adamant that F1's new-for-2019 front wings won't improve overtaking, but they will however increase costs.

In a bid to promote closer racing, F1 is implementing an aerodynamic regulation overhaul for 2019 centered around a simplified front wing concept with a larger span, the purpose

However, according to Germany's Auto Motor und Sport, simulations by teams are delivering a set of numbers that aren't lining up with expectations.

"F1 teams already reached 2018 downforce levels in 2019 CFD simulations - despite new front wing regulations," wrote AMUS' Tobi Grüner on Twitter.

"Red Bull stating additional costs of 15m Euro, suspecting it will have zero effect on overtaking."

And over at Milton Keynes, Helmut Marko has confirmed the preliminary results of the CFD simulations.

"Our simulations show that nothing changes. Overtaking is just as difficult. The whole exercise just costs us money."

Marko also believes the wider, deeper front wings will quickly become collateral damage during wheel-to-wheel racing, and necessitate a return to a narrower design for 2021.

"We can't do a shot in the dark like this again," Marko insisted.

Downforce issues 'would get worse' without 2019 changes

At Faenza, Toro Rosso boss Franz Tost echoed Marko's concerns.

"I discussed it with the people in the wind tunnel and they do not believe overtaking will become much easier," said Tost.

"I think at the beginning of next season the teams will have reached a similar level of downforce as now."

Earlier this year, Red Bull Racing's Christian Horner warned that the 2019 rules changes would inevitably elevate development costs for 2019. He has now been proven right.

"We talk about costs and being responsible, what's been introduced is a completely new concept, a completely new car that will cost millions and millions of pounds," he said.

"I just find it frustrating that decisions are made on zero evidence or zero conclusions, on theories and the burden of costs is passed onto the teams.

"Is it going to guarantee that the cars can follow closer next year? Probably not."

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.