GreenBkk Formula 1 | FIA confirms 2011 regulations, team orders allowed

FIA confirms 2011 regulations, team orders allowed

Following 2010’s final meeting of its World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) in Monaco on Friday, Formula One racing’s governing body, the FIA, has outlined regulation changes that will come into force over the next three seasons.

Among the major revisions for next season are the removal of the ban on team orders, the introduction of driver-adjustable rear wings, the effective outlawing of double diffusers, stricter bodywork deflection tests and a requirement for gearboxes to last five rather than four Grand Prix weekends. The 2011 regulations are expected to be published by the FIA in their entirety soon.

Technical changes for 2012 will include the use of biomass-derived fuels and tighter suspension regulations. The biggest changes, however, will come in 2013 with the introduction of a new engine formula (see related story), replacing the current 2.4 litre V8s with 1.6 litre four-cylinder units.

Related statement from the WMSC:
A number of changes were made to the Sporting and Technical Regulations for 2011, including:

- The article forbidding team orders (39.1) is deleted. Teams will be reminded that any actions liable to bring the sport into disrepute are dealt with under Article 151c of the International Sporting Code and any other relevant provisions
- Amendments to the list of penalties Stewards are permitted to apply
- Revisions to driving and driver conduct
- A limit on the width of the fast lane in the pits
- The introduction of a regulation permitting the Race Director to close the pit lane during a race for safety reasons
- The re-introduction of intermediate tyres for 2011
- Penalties to be applied to any driver who fails to use both specification of dry weather tyre during the race
- An amendment requiring gearboxes to be used for five consecutive races, instead of four
- Clarification on when cars can overtake the safety car
- A refinement to the principles of the regulations already agreed concerning moveable rear wings
- A better definition of the reference plane, and reinforcement of bodywork deflection tests, especially at the front of the reference plane
- The allowance for anti-intrusion panels to protect drivers’ legs

Amendments to the 2012 Technical Regulations were made in the following areas:

- Team communications will be made available to broadcasters
- The inclusion of fuel compounds produced from biomass
- A limitation on suspension uprights

Credit: Formula One Administration Ltd (www.formula1.com)