P1racenews AI automatic summary:
New analysis from the FIA – first seen by The Race – has revealed just how hard it is for F1 cars to follow one another right now, and how much better the problem should be from 2026
The recent analysis by the FIA has shown the challenges Formula 1 cars face in following each other closely, with a significant downforce loss when running two car lengths apart.
The new data highlights the worsening situation compared to the original 2022 cars, leading the FIA to implement all-new regulations for 2026 to address this issue.
The goal is to improve the “raceability” of cars and allow for closer racing and more overtaking opportunities, as the current racing has become more processional.
The FIA’s CFD analysis on aerodynamic losses when cars follow closely reveals a drop in performance since the 2022 cars were introduced.
While there have been improvements compared to the previous generation of cars, the FIA’s findings indicate a decline in downforce levels for cars following each other closely, prompting the need for aero concept revamp alongside new engines for 2026.