Rules Formula 1 Drivers Must Adhere To That You Didn't Know
It is understandable why Formula 1 must be stringent with the rules given its extraordinarily high speeds and very real element of danger. Before igniting their engines, drivers must complete a number of tasks, including as obtaining an F1 Super License and donning fireproof clothing whenever they are in a race car. If you've watched Formula 1: Drive to Survive, a popular Netflix show about the sport, you know that's just the beginning. Continue reading to get the full lowdown on all the regulations these sportsmen must abide by.
F1 drivers have to have a Super License.
F1 drivers require what is known as an F1 Super Licence, which is different from a conventional driver's license. No, you didn't spell that incorrectly. Given that it was issued by the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile, it has a European spelling (FIA). An extensive written test and prior racing experience are requirements for the license. Some drivers, like Alex Albon, who holds a Thai license, compete under a different nationality due to their dual citizenship.
They must be 18 years old to compete.
After Max Verstappen made his Formula 1 debut at age 17 in 2015, this rule was first put into effect. The age limit preserves the "elitist essence" of the sport.
Cars and drivers must meet a weight minimum.
See that there, then? That car is currently being weighed. In order to maintain speed and safety, the driver and vehicle must weigh a combined minimum of 798 kg (1,759 lbs) for the 2022 season. In order to level the playing field, weights are added to vehicles with too-light drivers.
Drivers have to weigh themselves after each race.
This aids officials in ensuring that the driver and vehicle fulfill the required minimum weight. Added justification? Due to perspiration from the hot conditions inside the car, which can reach 122 degrees Fahrenheit, drivers may lose 4 to 8 pounds during a race. Medical personnel are informed by the weigh-in how much weight a driver lost. They can respond appropriately if it's higher than usual.
Don't worry: Drivers can hydrate while racing.
Some motorists have a unique hydration system integrated into their vehicles. An isotonic sports drink that is intended to keep them extremely hydrated will be sprayed into their lips by pressing a button on the steering wheel.
They have to agree to grueling travel schedules.
During the season, Formula One drivers should plan to spend a lot of time away from their families—going back-to-back races means being gone for two weeks at a time. But because they frequently travel nonstop for longer than two months, mechanics, engineers, and other crew members have it far worse.
Flying with the team isn't required.
Some drivers fly business or first class with their crew on commercial flights, while others rent their own private aircraft. Alternatively, if the race is taking place in the driver's home nation, they frequently opt to stay at home and drive their own vehicles to the track.
