Charles Leclerc asks for an ideal compromise between F1 cars’ weight and downforce

The lower limit for the F1 car this year is 798 kg.

Charles Leclerc asks for an ideal compromise between F1 cars’ weight and downforce

Charles Leclerc (Image credit: Formula1News)

The escalating discontent among drivers and teams regarding the undue heaviness of the present F1 cars is evident. This year’s lower weight limit is 798 kg, marking a significant 200 kg surge from the vehicles of 15 years ago. Charles Leclerc has aligned with his peers in wanting to reduce car weight. Simultaneously, he holds optimism for preserving the downforce in the 2023 era.

Charles Leclerc mentioned that he entered Formula 1 in 2018 when the cars were already relatively heavy. He noted that he never had the opportunity to experience driving a car from 2008 or 2009. However, he recalled going to the Ferrari F2004 in Abu Dhabi the previous year.

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Despite carrying 50 kg of fuel during the track session, he sensed a notable distinction compared to present-day cars. He expressed his disapproval of heavy cars due to their decreased agility, particularly evident in low-speed corners.

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“last year I had the opportunity to drive the Ferrari F2004 in Abu Dhabi, and even though I was on track with 50 kg of fuel, I felt a significant difference compared to today’s cars. I don’t like heavy cars because they are less agile, and this becomes very apparent in low-speed corners,” Charles Leclerc told Motorsport.

Also read: Fred Vasseur asks Ferrari to be ‘aggressive’ in pursuit of producing a championship-worthy car for 2024

Charles Leclerc’s downforce praise fuels debate on F1 car weight and aerodynamics

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One of the primary focal points that FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem aims to tackle within the forthcoming 2026 regulations cycle pertains to this matter. However, a prevailing sentiment among most teams is that maintaining the current car weight would be prudent for Formula 1. This perspective stems from the proposition to distribute electric and V6 engine power equally at a 50/50 ratio, which necessitates incorporating heavier batteries.

Charles Leclerc praised the remarkable downforce in medium to high-speed driving today compared to a decade ago. He stressed the importance of balance, advocating against increased weight while acknowledging that going very light could compromise the current aerodynamics due to larger car sizes generating more aero than in the past.

“We are experiencing in medium to high speed with the downforce we have today is incredible compared to 12 or 13 years ago, and this is very impressive. I think it’s a balance. I wouldn’t want to go higher than the weight we have now, that’s for sure. But also going very light compromises also the aero that we have because the car is huge,” Leclerc further continued.

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