Bigger tyres force FIA to tweak minimum weight for 2017

Pirelli's wider tyres and the extra bulk it has induced have led the FIA to increase the mimimum weight of this year's cars by 6kg.

In its latest F1 technical regulations published a few weeks ago, the FIA stipulated that of each car, without fuel, must not be less that 722kg at all times.

But the introduction of Pirelli's wider tyres for 2017 and the extra weight they bring has mandated the FIA to tweak the current weight limit.

The minimum weight increase was justified by the official weight difference between a 2016 set of tyres and its 2017 equivalent, a difference determined to be 6kg.

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The new 728kg limit for 2017 represents an increase of 26kg over last year's mandatory 702kg limit.

With cars so sensitive to weight margins, one would believe that this year's heavier cars would negatively impact lap times, but the introduction of bigger wings and the enhanced mechanical grip will provide an overall positive effect on performance.

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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.