HOW WILL THE NEW AERO RULES CHANGE F1?

It’s not news that elements of Formula 1’s overtaking problem are the levels of downforce and turbulent wakes the cars produce. While many fans are rightly frustrated at how long it has taken for the issue to be addressed, it is at least a positive that those in the sport are finally looking into possible solutions with proper data. So what does that mean for the 2019 regulation changes, which focus mainly on the front wing? As our investigation on page 16 shows, the tweaks are unlikely to produce a dramatic change in on-track action. Teams believe that they will slow the cars and should stop the overtaking issue getting worse but, for a significant shift, we will probably have to wait until the more-extensive rule changes scheduled to come in for ’21. Long before the definitive 2019 F1 cars hit the track and give us firmer answers, the new season will kick off this week at Autosport International at Birmingham’s NEC. One of the highlights will be the World Rally Championship launch on Saturday, featuring all the stars that will be trying to stop Sebastien Ogier (who we intervew on p28) winning his seventh title. Turn to our preview on p24 to see what (and who) else to look out for. This week Autosport also says thank you and farewell to Mclaren’s involvement in the Mclaren Autosport BRDC Award. Launched in 1989, the Award has boosted the careers of many drivers and given them their first experience of F1 machinery, thanks to the Mclaren prize drive. Many of the winners give their recollections and views in our special feature on p40. Happily, the Award will continue with a new partner, which will be announced soon, so hopefully many more British stars will be unearthed in the years to come.