As the 2024 Formula 1 championship approaches, and with over 70 days still remaining until the pre-season testing sessions at the Sakhir circuit in Bahrain (February 21-23), the FIA has already introduced some rather significant regulations. As has been known for years, teams are strictly prohibited from putting the current season’s cars on the track outside race weekends, except in certain special cases. Here are all the updates.
Pirelli Tests
As requested by the Milan-based tire supplier, in the upcoming year, the number of days dedicated to gathering data for tire development will increase from the current 35 to 40. Additionally, responding to numerous complaints from drivers regarding the malfunctioning of wet tires, an extra 4 test days will be allocated, during which teams will exclusively run Full Wet and Intermediate tires with the aim of improving the driving feel.
Moreover, the development of the so-called “splash guards” will continue to enhance drivers’ visibility when behind other cars. The first shakedown in July at Silverstone did not yield the expected results, so a second attempt with an entirely new design will take place in May. Based on the feedback received, the FIA will then decide whether to introduce anti-spray devices in 2025 or alternatively postpone it directly to 2026 when the new regulations come into effect.
Filming Day
These are promotional events where teams annually showcase their new cars. The mileage limit set by the regulations is currently 100 km, but from 2024, it will be doubled. However, it is important to note that the mileage must be completed within a single day.
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Testing with Previous Cars
Now onto the innovation that will please the teams the most. During the season, private tests are allowed, provided they are conducted with cars that are at least two years old. Next year, teams will be able to use ground-effect cars for the first time, offering young drivers from various academies and/or third drivers the chance to experience this generation of cars. These testing days are typically utilized to accumulate as many kilometers as possible behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car.
In this case as well, the Federation has introduced a modification requiring the exclusive use of materials that have already been introduced in at least one official session of 2022 (test or Grand Prix). This measure aims to prevent teams from taking advantage of these days to test new components that would provide data for the development of the 2024 Formula 1 car.
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