The idea of having larger wheels in F1 is gaining more momentum, with a F1 2021 rules package being drawn up by the engineering team at Ross Brawn. This is far from a new concept, with Pirelli previously leading the calls for this to be introduced.
The current plans include a switch from 13-inch to 18-inch wheels and it is something that FIA race director Charlie Whiting is backing. The concept tyres were first demonstrated back in 2014, when Charles Pic used them on a Lotus at Silverstone. Martin Brundle also gave them an outing in Monaco 2015 on a GP2 test car.
More experts are backing the change
There are still arguments against the switch, with concerns over the impact on suspension design leading to increased costs. However, it would seem that more and more people in F1 are coming round to the idea.
The fact that Pirelli’s contract runs out in 2019 means that it is the perfect time for new manufacturers to tender for the new F1 contract, based on the potential change to 18 inch tyres in 2021.
Source: www.autosport.com
Providing adequate planning time to manufacturers
Like everything in the modern world, if everything stays the same then we will never see improvements. So looking at this new concept should be a game-changer for F1. Extensive testing will be required and lots of technical changes will come as a consequence but the benefits that wider tyres brought in 2016 could be improved even further.
Three years should be enough time to get all of the groundwork done and make the necessary design changes to the cars that will be used in future F1.
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