P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The new F1 rule that DEMANDS cars look better
The latest Formula 1 cars have caught attention for their improved appearance during this season’s livery launches, featuring brighter colors and glossier finishes. The shift back to vibrant hues marks a departure from the subdued matte paint and carbon fiber designs seen in recent years. Teams were compelled to reintroduce gloss due to new regulations implemented for 2026, aimed at enhancing the visual appeal and differentiation of cars on the grid. Despite the weight disadvantage of gloss paint, teams are prioritizing aesthetics to gain an edge in performance within the competitive F1 landscape. Red Bull led the trend by introducing matte paint in 2016, influencing other teams to follow suit until the recent rule change promoting more colorful liveries. The decision to mandate a higher percentage of painted or stickered surfaces on F1 cars reflects a renewed focus on captivating visuals and reviving the tradition of striking race car designs in the sport.
