Pierre Gasly Reveals Hidden Physical Toll of Current F1 Cars on Drivers' Backs
Pierre Gasly has shed light on the hidden physical toll F1's current-generation cars are taking on drivers' backs, despite porpoising being less visible. He, along with Charles Leclerc and Lance Stroll, expressed concerns over the stiffness and weight of the cars, indicating that the physical demands are far greater than perceived by onlookers. This raises questions about long-term driver health under current regulations, as the sport prepares for new rules in 2026.
Pierre Gasly has revealed that current Formula 1 cars are taking a far greater physical toll on drivers' backs than what is visible to the public, despite the reduced visual effect of porpoising. He emphasized that the physical demands are still very much present, impacting driver health.
Why it matters:
After initial concerns about porpoising in 2022 led to regulatory changes, Gasly's comments highlight that the underlying physical strain on drivers remains a significant issue. This ongoing "toll" could impact driver longevity and performance, raising questions about the long-term health implications of the current car designs and regulations.
The details:
- Persistent Physical Strain: While porpoising, the visible bouncing of cars, has largely been mitigated since its peak in 2022, Gasly states that drivers' backs are still enduring "much more of a toll" than external observers realize.
- Driver Concerns: Gasly, alongside Charles Leclerc and Lance Stroll, expressed mixed feelings about the current regulation cycle, which concludes this season. All three drivers highlighted the stiffness and physical demands of the cars.
- Leclerc's Experience: Charles Leclerc admitted he "didn't really enjoy the first year" due to significant bouncing but found subsequent years slightly better as Ferrari improved their car. He still noted the cars are "stiff."
- Stroll's Discontent: Lance Stroll explicitly stated he would "not miss" the current regulations, criticizing the cars for being "very stiff" and "too heavy." He also linked these characteristics to an increase in "battling injuries and stuff."
- Performance vs. Comfort: Gasly acknowledged the incredible speed and cornering performance of the current cars, even beating track records at some circuits, but suggested there are "different ways of achieving it" that could improve driver comfort and reduce weight.
The big picture:
The current F1 regulations, introduced in 2022, aimed to improve racing by allowing cars to follow more closely. While some aspects of racing have improved, the physical impact on drivers and the car's weight have become recurring concerns among the grid. The FIA's intervention in 2022 addressed the most visible aspects of porpoising, but the underlying stiffness and physical demands appear to persist, prompting calls for a re-evaluation in future regulation cycles.
What's next:
With the current regulation cycle ending this season, the focus will shift to the 2026 regulations. Drivers like Gasly, Leclerc, and Stroll are hopeful that the new rules will address the issues of car weight, stiffness, and the physical toll on their bodies. The collective feedback from drivers will be crucial in shaping future car designs that prioritize both performance and driver well-being.