F1 Proposes New Tyre Rules for 2019

F1 team managers have met with FIA race director Charlie Whiting in Abu Dhabi to talk about tyres.

The meeting follows the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association meeting recently in Brazil, when the drivers complained directly to Pirelli that the current tyres do not allow them to attack in the races.

And so, according to Auto Motor und Sport, the teams meeting with Whiting was about the possibility of rule changes for 2019 designed specifically to address the tyre problems.

One proposal is that drivers should be free to choose whatever tyres they want for the race.

But some smaller teams objected, saying: “The races will be even more boring if the top teams have the freedom to choose the most robust tyres on offer.”

Another idea is for at least two compulsory pitstops per driver.

A further suggestion is that a ‘points system’ for the tyres be introduced. Each compound would be assigned a certain number of points, with drivers needing to meet a minimum points score per race in order to comply.

However, one team manager said, “Too complicated,”.

Another voice, from inside the Mercedes camp, said the tyre regulations talk is premature.

“We will have new cars and new tyres next year. Let’s see how that affects the racing before we introduce more new things,” he said.

However, for now, the teams will be focusing on the final race of the 2018 season. With both championships wrapped up, this race is a free-for-all. It is also a chance for some drivers to convince teams with seats left that they deserve to stay in F1.

Sadly, it seems like it will be curtains for the likes of Esteban Ocon who will be without a driver for the upcoming season.