WMSC ratifies F1 2021 regulations after approval from teams

Formula 1’s proposed overhaul of the technical and sporting regulations will go ahead as planned in 2021 following approval from the teams, with formal confirmation being made public on Thursday morning in Austin.

Years of talks have culminated in the teams giving the green light for changes to both sets of regulations for 2021 in a bid to improve the on-track spectacle and create closer, more competitive racing.

The FIA’s World Motor Sport Council ratified the changes with unanimous support, as confirmed by FIA president Jean Todt in a press conference on Thursday.

"Today, we are really delighted to publish the sets of regulations which have been adopted unanimously by the World Motor Sport Council, and it defines the future of Formula 1 from 2021 onwards," said Todt.

"For the first time, the technical, sporting and financial aspects are addressed all at once, and the objective is to offer a more sustainable, safe and exciting sport."

The changes include a significant overhaul of the existing technical regulations, with changes being made to the aerodynamic designs of the cars to allow them to follow each other closer on-track. Criticism had been made by teams over the amount of aerodynamic freedom allowed under the planned regulations, but unanimously approval was received in their vote.

2021 will also see a cost cap come into force, restricting teams to spend $175 million per year in certain areas in a bid to level the playing field and make the sport more competitive, cutting the gap between the front of the pack and the rear.

More to follow...