McLaren boss Zak Brown proposes reintroducing refuelling to F1
McLaren CEO Zak Brown argues that returning to mid‑race refuelling would add a new strategic dimension to Formula 1, but the idea clashes with modern safety, sustainability and cost‑cap goals.
McLaren CEO Zak Brown has revived a long‑dormant idea: re‑introducing mid‑race refuelling to Formula 1. He says the move would add a fresh strategic layer, making pit stops more than just tyre changes. The proposal, however, collides with modern priorities of safety, sustainability and cost control.
Why it matters:
Refuelling was a core element of race strategy until it was banned after 2009 over safety concerns. Its return would force teams to juggle fuel loads alongside tyre choices, reshaping qualifying tactics and race‑day decision‑making.
The details:
- Historical context: From the 1950s to 2009, teams calculated fuel loads and pit crews used high‑pressure pumps, adding risk and drama.
- Strategic depth & weight: Refuelling lets crews start light and top‑up later, turning fuel load into a dynamic lever that can swing race results.
- Safety & cost‑cap: New fuel rigs need fire‑suppression, training and extra pit crew, raising expenses and risking a wider gap despite the €145 million cap.
What's next:
Brown’s suggestion has ignited a paddock debate. The FIA could test the concept in a controlled environment or a non‑championship event before amending the rulebook. Until then, the conversation keeps F1’s strategic soul alive.