Why do F1 drivers get weighed and what is the requirement?

FORMULA ONE is arguably the most technical sport in the sporting industry – even what drivers weigh matters.

Fans are gearing up for what is expected to be a sensational 2023 F1 season.

AFPMax Verstappen won the 2022 F1 championship[/caption]

And Lewis Hamilton in particular will be determined to dethrone reigning champion Max Verstappen having failed to win a single race in 2022.

But the racers are obliged to be weighed before they get behind the wheel.

SunSport has the reasons why.

Why do F1 drivers get weighed?

Formula One drivers are weighed to see how much weight the racer has lost during the race.

And drivers tip the scales to make sure that themselves and the car surpass the minimum weight requirement as the lighter the car, the faster it will go.

F1 racers are weighed immediately after the race with all of their gear on which includes their helmet, gloves and full race suit as it contributes to their ‘seat weight’.

Furthermore, drivers are prohibited from eating or drinking until their weight measurements have been recorded.

The FIA implemented the rule in 2019 and the racers believe that it makes the circuit fair.

What is the minimum weight requirement?

All drivers must weigh a minimum of 80kg which includes their drivers seat.

There are usually no exceptions for this requirement and consequences come for those who fail to meet the minimum weight.

GettyMax Verstappen being weighed before the first race of the season in Bahrain[/caption]

What happens if drivers do not meet the weight requirement?

Drivers who are found to be under the weight limit after the race receive an automatic disqualification.

The rule is in place to make it fair for everybody to compete and it also forces drivers to maintain a healthy weight.