Following the 2024 Formula 1 Brazilian Grand Prix, the FIA investigated the use of skid blocks on cars, uncovering a loophole in the regulations that allowed teams to exploit additional wear on these components. This led to releasing a new technical directive to ban such practices. The timing of the directive, issued just days before the Las Vegas Grand Prix, left teams scrambling to adjust their cars to comply with the updated rules.
The rapid modifications required to eliminate the extra-wear feature posed challenges, particularly for budget-conscious teams. Adjustments, even seemingly minor ones, can significantly impact a team’s financial planning in a cost-capped era. Reports suggest that Ferrari was among the hardest hit by this directive in terms of performance and budget. The team had been leveraging the design of satellite skid blocks more effectively than most, which meant their car required extensive revisions to meet the revised regulations. This development underscores the high-stakes nature of F1, where even the smallest technical edge can dramatically influence a team’s competitiveness and financial health.
“We Had To Make The Change,” Ferrari Chief Explains The Rule Change Conundrum
A recent Motorsport.com report revealed that Ferrari faced significant challenges following the FIA’s clampdown on using satellite skid blocks designed to protect the underfloor plank. This investigation, initiated by Red Bull after the Brazilian Grand Prix, targeted claims that some teams, notably Ferrari and Mercedes, were allegedly exploiting these skid blocks to run their cars lower than permitted by regulations.
At the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Ferrari team principal Frédéric Vasseur explained the situation, explaining that the team had to act swiftly to modify their car and comply with the revised rules. Despite receiving prior confirmation from the FIA that their plank design was legal, Ferrari opted not to challenge the decision, prioritizing their focus on the championship over engaging in regulatory disputes.
However, the changes came at a steep cost. Vasseur acknowledged that Ferrari incurred substantial financial expenses as they had to completely rebuild the skid blocks and underfloor plank in response to the directive. This abrupt overhaul impacted the team’s budget and highlighted the complex dynamics between technical innovation, regulatory oversight, and the intense competition that defines Formula 1.
Ferrari’s Dismal Las Vegas Outing Wasn’t Due To Skid Block
Moroever, Vasseur acknowledged the challenges posed by the late issuance of the Technical Directive (TD) regarding skid blocks. The team received the directive just one week before the Las Vegas Grand Prix qualifying session, which left them with limited time to make the necessary adjustments. Despite the timing, Vasseur emphasized that the TD was not an excuse for the team’s performance issues in Las Vegas.
He clarified that the weekend struggles were primarily related to tire management, a separate issue unrelated to the regulatory changes. Vasseur’s remarks underline the importance of adaptability in Formula 1, where teams must constantly balance technical compliance with race-specific strategies.
