The teams approve new rules for tires

Formula 1 teams have approved a regulatory change that will require the top ten drivers on the starting grid to use the same tires for the race start as during the final qualifying laps. The FIA’s Sport working group pushed for this clause, which will add a strategic element to the qualifying exercise. Furthermore, it will increase the possibility of overtaking during the race.

The issue was discussed at a recent meeting of the F1 Commission. It was agreed that there should be a rule change for all Q3 drivers. They will start the race with their qualifying tires.

According to a statement from the governing body: « In order to introduce a new strategic element, cars that participated in the third qualifying session must start the race with the same set of tires with which the grid was defined. »

The F1 Commission has also approved a reduction in the number of dry-weather tires allocated to each team, decreasing from 14 to 11.

The FIA stated that new measures for 2010 have also been reviewed. The teams have also approved changes in the technical regulations for 2011, including the ban on the double diffuser. Additionally, there is a reduction in aerodynamic downforce by decreasing the maximum height of the diffuser from 175mm to 125mm.

The president of the FIA, Jean Todt, is putting more pressure on the use of greener technologies in the sport. According to a statement from the FIA: « The Commission received notes from the FIA president regarding the introduction of new environmental technologies in the championship. This request was warmly welcomed by the teams and new proposals will be developed. »