FIA greenlights GPU use in F1 aerodynamic simulations from 2028: teams preparing to invest in next-gen CFD. From 2028, Formula 1 teams will be allowed to use GPUs for CFD aerodynamic simulations.

Having access to cutting-edge technology is one of the essential elements for achieving success in Formula 1, both in terms of infrastructure and software capabilities. In recent seasons, several Formula 1 teams have heavily invested in updating their wind tunnels or building entirely new ones from scratch. However, over the next two years, the focus is expected to shift more towards virtual simulations, particularly in the field of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has now officially approved the future use of Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) in CFD analysis, starting from the 2028 Formula 1 season, signaling a major technological revolution within the sport.

A look at the new scenario
Since 2021, the FIA has implemented an Aerodynamic Testing Restrictions (ATR) system, commonly referred to as the aerodynamic handicap. This regulation limits the number of hours teams are allowed to spend using wind tunnels and restricts CFD simulation resources in inverse proportion to their position in the previous season’s Constructors’ Championship standings.

When it comes to virtual simulations, the current rules include a formula that defines usage limits based on several factors. These include the number and performance of the processors used, along with the duration of each simulation. However, under the current framework, Formula 1 teams are only allowed to use Central Processing Units (CPUs) for CFD work. That is about to change. From 2028, the FIA will revise its formula to allow the use of Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) in these operations.

GPUs are highly specialized processing units that excel at performing large numbers of operations simultaneously, or in parallel. Rather than replacing CPUs entirely, GPUs are typically used to complement them. This regulatory change is expected to significantly increase computational speed and efficiency, allowing teams to complete the same number of simulations in a shorter time frame. Moreover, the enhanced performance of GPUs creates new opportunities to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms into the analysis process, potentially further revolutionizing aerodynamic development.

Budget cap concerns
It remains to be seen how many teams will decide to fully embrace this opportunity, but there is already speculation within the paddock that many will spend the next two years preparing for this shift. Implementing GPU-based simulations would require teams to rework their simulation software and rewrite the core algorithms used in CFD analysis. In most cases, this would fall under the responsibility of the external software providers that develop CFD platforms for each individual team.

However, there is also a significant financial aspect to consider. Adopting GPUs for CFD simulations represents a major investment in a team’s factory infrastructure—an area that is subject to Formula 1’s strict budget cap regulations, just like wind tunnel upgrades. Much will depend on how the FIA chooses to adjust the cost-to-benefit ratio within its new formula for limiting virtual analysis time. If using GPUs is made to offer a clear competitive advantage under the revised system, teams will likely act fast to integrate them.

Nevertheless, the fact that the FIA has chosen to approve GPU usage suggests there is already notable interest among Formula 1 teams. The governing body’s openness to this technological evolution confirms that change is coming—and teams that adapt quickly may be best positioned to gain a competitive edge in the years ahead.