FIA Officially Confirmed Eight C...read more

FIA Introduces Eight Major Changes Ahead of 2025 Spanish Grand Prix

The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has officially announced eight key updates set to take effect at the 2025 Spanish Grand Prix. These changes are aimed at enhancing safety, tightening technical regulations, and elevating the overall race experience at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.

1. Tougher Front Wing Flex Regulations
The FIA has introduced stricter tests on front wing flexibility. Under the new rules, vertical deflection under a 1kN load must not exceed 5mm—down from the previous 10mm—targeting teams that use flexible wings to gain aerodynamic benefits.

2. Tighter Rear Wing Deflection Limits
Rear wing standards have also been reinforced. The allowed slot gap between the mainplane and flap is now capped at 0.5mm under a 2kN load, a significant reduction from the earlier 2mm, in an effort to eliminate potential “mini-DRS” systems.

3. Circuit Layout Changes
The layout of the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya has been updated. The final chicane has been removed, reverting to a faster and more fluid configuration previously used in 2006. Concrete verges have been extended at Turns 2 and 7, while new safety bollards have been added at Turn 2.

4. Modified DRS Zones
The Drag Reduction System (DRS) zones have been repositioned to boost overtaking chances. The first detection point is now located 86 meters before Turn 9 with activation 40 meters after. The second detection is placed at Safety Car Line 1, with activation 162 meters beyond Turn 14.

5. Stricter Track Limits Enforcement
To ensure fairness, the FIA has updated procedures for rejoining the track after exceeding limits at Turns 1 and 2. Drivers must now re-enter at Turn 3 by passing to the left of two designated bollards, ensuring no advantage is gained.

6. Mandatory Driver Cooling in Hot Conditions
With temperatures rising during race weekends, the FIA now requires all cars to be equipped with driver cooling systems when ambient temperatures exceed 30.5°C. To accommodate this, the minimum car weight has been increased by 5kg.

7. Removal of Gearbox Usage Limits
Reflecting improved gearbox durability, the FIA has lifted restrictions on the number of gearboxes allowed per season. This change is expected to reduce penalties and support performance stability.

8. Formula 2 and Formula 3 Added from 2026
Starting in 2026, when the Spanish Grand Prix moves to Madrid, the event will also feature Formula 2 and Formula 3 races through 2035. This addition offers fans a more comprehensive race weekend and highlights up-and-coming talent.

These changes underscore the FIA’s dedication to advancing Formula 1 by promoting safety, reinforcing fairness, and delivering a more exciting spectacle for fans, drivers, and teams alike.