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2019 changes cost a few seconds of lap time in simulations

2019 changes cost a "few seconds of lap time" in simulations

16-01-2019 10:00 Last update: 10:04
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Bobby Vincent

Formula 1's official 2019 rule changes took "a few seconds of lap time", resulting in "the worst possible outcome" with Racing Point completing its first lap simulations of the year.

Alterations for next season include simplified front and rear wing regulations, in an attempt to improve the on-track action with it essentially making it easier to follow cars and therefore increase the opportunity to overtake.

The paddock seems to still be divided if the changes to the rules and regulations will improve the competition at all and Racing Point, formerly Force India, technical director Andy Green believes "the relatively small" rules change has had a "big" impact on the cars.

"It's been a big hit," Green told Autosport. "And when we first put it in the tunnel a few months ago, we're talking a few seconds of lap time, and a poorly balanced car as well. It was the worst possible outcome.

"Hopefully, it has some positives with respect to closer racing. We, like everyone else, have been trying to crawl our way out of the hole that we jumped into with these new regulations. 

"It's significant and it's right up there with, not-quite a complete change of car, but it's pretty close."

Like before-mentioned, Racing Point were Force India, before the team were forced to change its name following administration and then being taken over by Lawrence Stroll, a Candian billionaire.

"It's a big challenge (the rules change)," Green explained. "I wonder if old Force India would have really struggled. Significant architectural changes would need to keep being developed throughout the season, we should be struggling.

"We're in a much better place now, it's going to help us."