F1 increases fuel limit for 2019 to help drivers push harder

The FIA has also confirmed that a May deadline has been set for finalising the 2021 power unit regulations, as suggested by Ferrari boss Maurizio Arrivabene last week.

The fuel allowance change, agreed in today’s Paris meeting and set to be ratified by the World Motor Sport Council, will be welcomed by the teams.

They have faced increased fuel consumption due to the higher downforce levels and faster lap times generated by last year’s aero changes, and which have put an extra emphasis on fuel saving in races – something that is not popular with fans.

Also confirmed for 2019 are the separation of the weight of the driver and car – with an 80kg minimum for the former – and the use of biometric gloves for safety reasons.

As previously reported, there was further debate today on aerodynamic changes for 2019 to facilitate overtaking. The FIA stressed that it wants a decision by the end of this month, which is the official deadline for 2019 rules changes. Teams are helping with extra CFD research.

The governing body noted that “discussions will continue on proposals relating to aerodynamics, with a view to taking a decision by the end of April, once research being conducted by the FIA, in consultation with the teams, has been concluded.”

MGU-H to be dropped

The FIA also presented the latest version of its 2021 power unit regulations, noting only that the engine would be a 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrid, with no MGU-H. This format was first outlined, with much more detail, on October 31 last year. 

Although the decision to abandon the MGU-H shows that Liberty has not compromised on its stance about the energy recovery system, other elements of the 2021 package remain the subject of debate.

Sources have indicated that the FIA and Liberty have different views on some aspects of the final concept.

The FIA said that its Technical Department “will now meet with current and potential power unit manufacturers to discuss in more detail, with a view to concluding the 2021 regulations by the end of May.”