There have been no significant alterations in regulations either, so it might appear as though it is a rather unchanging season. However, this is not actually the situation, and astute observers have noticed numerous minor adjustments in rules and structures.
These alterations are not noteworthy on their own, but since all the drivers have returned from the previous season, this report examines how the rules and tweaks have impacted the 2024 Formula 1 World Championship season thus far.
The privilege of review is one of the entitlements that Formula 1 teams possess and frequently utilize, but it often sparks controversy regarding its implementation and its impact on the race. Teams have the right to review and reconsider a decision that has already been rendered and finalized.
To do so, they must uncover a “significant and pertinent new element that was not available to the parties seeking the review at the time of the decision in question.” However, what has changed is the number of times teams are required to do this.
Previously, the window to file an appeal was 14 days after the decision was made, but now it has been reduced to four days, or five in special circumstances.
Furthermore, Formula 1 teams will be obliged to pay an annual deposit that will only be refunded if they are successful or if the FIA judges deem it necessary for the sake of fairness. The rules also stipulate that teams must “specify the elements that are significant, relevant, and new prior to any hearing taking place.” This ensures that not every hearing will revolve around the same issues.
Some argue that the rules are excessively stringent and place an excessive burden on teams seeking appeals. A shorter appeals period will also impact the gambling aspect.
Most Canadian-based casinos that accept cryptocurrency tend to withhold payments until the dispute is resolved. By making disputes shorter and more challenging to initiate, both casinos and players may be affected.
The fines imposed on Formula 1 drivers for rule violations have increased compared to 2023. Previously, the maximum fine a driver could pay for breaking the rules was set at €250,000 (£215,000, $270,000, depending on the location of the offense). This year, that number has been raised to €1 million.
The fines for other minor offenses have also been increased. The FIA has stated that the penalties have remained unchanged for the past 12 years and that the increase reflects the changes in the economy and society at large.
Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has addressed this change and stated, “We need to consider the message this sends to those watching. If they are going to impose a million in fines, let’s ensure that 100% goes towards a good cause.
“There is a substantial amount of money in this industry, and there is much more we need to do in terms of promoting better accessibility and diversity. That’s the only way they will receive that million from me,” Hamilton added.
In 2024, the F1 Sprint made its return with six events. The addition of China and Miami to the lineup marked their first appearance in this format, while Brazil hosted its fourth consecutive Sprint weekend and Austria staged its third. Austin and Qatar, on the other hand, were in their second year of hosting the Sprint.
The Formula 1 Sprint is a thrilling 100km race to the finish line. Unlike the regular race, it lasts for approximately 30 seconds and does not involve any pit stops unless there is an emergency. The changes made to the format are simply minor adjustments.
The Formula 1 Sprint Qualifying has been moved from Saturday to Friday, following an initial practice session for the drivers to familiarize themselves with the track and make necessary adjustments to their cars.
On Saturday, the 100km Sprint will take place, followed by the qualifying session for the Grand Prix later in the day. The Grand Prix itself will still be held on Sunday.
As part of a testing program, teams were given permission to use older Formula 1 cars. In this context, an old car refers to one that is two years old. Additionally, the 2021 car was also allowed to be used in 2022. This decision was made because it provided limited crossover information.
In order to prevent teams from testing components during a TPC run that could then be implemented on the current car, F1 has introduced new regulations. According to these regulations, all components must have been used at least once in an official testing session or race weekend before they can be used on a previous car.
Previously, teams used to perform at pre-season events, which were popular among fans as they provided an opportunity to see the cars before the actual race. However, for this season, further rules and clarifications have been made regarding the use of current race cars for promotional events and video shoots.
Starting from 2024, teams are now allowed to double the distance covered during promotional events, but only one event per day. This allows the promotional teams to capture more footage without significantly affecting the car itself. Previously, these events were limited to a total of 100km of mileage, equivalent to 20 laps of a 5km circuit.
Stricter regulations for roll hoops have been implemented since 2022, following a serious crash at the beginning of a British Grand Prix. These regulations were further tightened in 2023 and have remained in place for this season. Changes have been made to the overall design and the minimum height for the application of the homologation test.
Furthermore, starting in 2024, roll hoops must pass a much more rigorous load test. Research has shown that if these requirements had been in place in 2022, the accident could have been avoided.
Since 2022, there has been a utilization of wheel covers that possess the capability to exhibit information. This implementation sparked controversy due to its potential interference with aerodynamics. Nonetheless, there was a proposal to utilize these covers for the purpose of displaying race-related information, rather than for advertising. However, this alteration would result in additional weight being added to the car.
After careful consideration, it was determined that it would be best to refrain from implementing this change for the current season, and it is unlikely to be implemented in the future. The added weight would further impact aerodynamics and potentially compromise safety. Therefore, alternative methods for creating the desired display were explored.
As a fan, have you observed any of the rule modifications in Formula 1? Moreover, it is crucial to consider whether casual viewers are able to discern these changes. It can be argued that the changes we are currently witnessing this season may not have a significant impact in the long term.