FIA introduce MANDATORY rule change at Las Vegas Grand Prix

FIA introduce MANDATORY rule change at Las Vegas Grand Prix

The FIA has introduced a mandatory technical directive ahead of the Las Vegas Grand Prix to address a potential loophole in plank wear regulations.

This race marks Formula 1’s third visit to the United States this season, with Max Verstappen aiming to secure his fourth consecutive drivers’ championship following a commanding victory in Brazil.

Verstappen currently leads McLaren’s Lando Norris by 62 points in the standings.

The new directive targets recent developments where teams have reportedly been using skid blocks to manipulate plank wear.

By installing these blocks on the car floor, teams could maintain a low ride height without exceeding the 1mm plank wear limit, gaining a potential advantage in downforce and speed under the ground-effect regulations.

Ground-effect aerodynamics, reintroduced in this era of F1, relies on generating downforce from the car’s floor.

Maintaining a low ride height is crucial for maximizing performance, but the plank, a wooden strip underneath the car, must not wear beyond regulatory limits.

Excessive plank wear results in severe penalties, ensuring teams balance performance with compliance.

The FIA’s latest directive removes certain freedoms allowed under a previous regulation, effectively closing the loophole.

According to Autosport, the issue was highlighted by Red Bull after the Brazilian Grand Prix.

The reigning champions reportedly raised concerns about rival teams exploiting this regulation for a competitive edge.

By acting swiftly, the FIA aims to maintain a level playing field and uphold the integrity of the sport’s technical regulations.

The directive ensures all teams adhere to the same standards ahead of the Las Vegas event, where compliance with the new rules will be closely monitored.

This move underscores the FIA’s commitment to addressing regulatory concerns promptly.

With penalties looming for non-compliance, teams must now adjust their setups to meet the clarified requirements while maintaining competitive performance.

As the championship heads into its final stages, this directive could play a pivotal role in influencing race outcomes and team strategies.

The Las Vegas Grand Prix promises to deliver high stakes and excitement under the neon lights, with this regulatory change adding another layer of intrigue to an already competitive season.