F1 News, Reports and Race Results

FIA working on standard bodywork kit to reduce tyre spray

The FIA is conducting a study to define a package of parts for F1 cars that would suppress tyre spray during wet weather conditions.

Wet races this year have seen a majority of drivers complain about visibility issues, with feedback suggesting that F1's latest generation ground effect cars are throwing up much more spray than their predecessors, a "key determinant" according to the FIA in suspending sessions.

At this week's F1 Commission meeting held at Yas Marina, the governing body summarized several areas where solutions could be applied to reduce the volume of spray generated by cars.

The FIA's study is looking at defining a standard bodywork kit, like the use of wheel arches that would "suppress the tyre spray" generated when running in wet conditions.

However, the use of such minimal bodywork must not "unduly hinder" pitstop changes.

The study will also assess "the contribution of surface water picked up through the underfloor tunnels to understand its significance" to the existing tyre spray problem.

Additional benefits such as extra lights will also be considered, while it was noted that any spray suppression devices would only be fitted before a race or during red flag periods due to extreme weather conditions.

The FIA said that “preliminary work and an initial concept were presented to the Commission, and the FIA will continue to work to refine the proposals, with further updates anticipated in 2023”.

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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.

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