The Formula 1 Commission has passed a series of changes to the aerodynamics of the cars for 2019 with the aim of promoting more overtaking.
In a vote conducted by email on Monday, Mercedes and their customers along with Sauber provided the four necessary supporters of the proposals to get the green light while the remaining six teams all voted against.
The changes include a simpler front wing with less outwash from the endplates, something that teams have developed since the current wider wings were introduced in 2009, and a larger span than current designs.
Then the rear wing will be altered, becoming wider and deeper with a larger DRS flap for greater effect on circuits with shorter zones such as in Australia, Hungary and Suzuka.
Brake ducts will also be simplified with no winglets permitted. Attempts to change the ever-more complex bargeboards were not agreed on, however.
The changes have come from the research being undertaken by managing director of motorsport Ross Brawn in coordination with some teams as part of the broader 2021 plan.
And their introduction was brought forward after just five passes were made outside of the opening lap in Australia, though the following three races have seen more action.
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Few expected the changes to get the go-ahead with the opposition of many teams so the outcome was something of a surprise.
Monday was also the final opportunity to agree on changes for next season without needing unanimous backing.
“The decision of the Strategy Group and the F1 Commission taken yesterday, sanctioned by the FIA World Motor Sport Council, to approve a number of aerodynamic modifications aimed at promoting closer racing and more overtaking for the 2019 season was definitely an important step,” Brawn commented.
“It’s also important to note that the decision has been taken after an intense period of research into the FIA’s proposals, which were made with the support of Formula 1 and, conducted by a majority of the teams.
“A good spirit, a good way of working together for a better and more spectacular Formula 1, which is what the FIA, Formula 1, the Teams, and most importantly, the fans want. Bravo.”
