Piastri urges F1 to slash car weight to 600‑kg range

Oscar Piastri says the 768 kg minimum weight is too high and urges the FIA to target a 600‑kg range – a cut of at least 50 kg. He notes high‑downforce packages keep the cars fun, but only a simpler power unit and lighter battery could deliver that reduction.

Why it matters:

• Extra mass strains brakes and tires in low‑speed corners.
• Heavier cars limit aero development and force larger radiators.
• A lighter chassis would free design space and boost strategic flexibility.
• Heavier cars increase tyre degradation, forcing more pit stops.

The details:

• Minimum weight for 2026 cars: 768 kg, 77 kg above the 2014 baseline.
• Piastri calls for a 600‑kg target – roughly a 50‑kg cut.
• Only a simpler engine, possibly without a heavy hybrid battery, can shed that weight.
• Drivers say rising weight hurts balance and low‑speed grip.
• The 2024 spec, despite its weight, delivered some of the best high‑speed cornering of the hybrid era.

What's next:

• FIA will review the minimum weight rule at the next technical briefing.
• Teams may explore hybrid‑lite power units or new lightweight materials to cut kilos.
• Piastri’s remarks pressure manufacturers to prioritise weight‑saving before the next regulation cycle.