Image source: Autosport
P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Why do F1 cars not refuel during a race?
Refuelling was a common practice in Formula 1 to make cars lighter and faster, but it was banned in 2010 due to safety concerns for the drivers. Cars now start the race with a full tank of fuel and must finish with at least 1 litre of fuel left for testing purposes, or else they will be disqualified. The ban on refuelling was also a cost-cutting measure, as it was expensive to transport the necessary equipment. There were several incidents of fuel spillages and fires in the pit, causing injuries to drivers and mechanics, which further justified the decision to ban refuelling. Overall, the ban has shifted the focus to fuel management and strategic planning for teams.