What does Antonelli's improvement mean for Russell? F1 Q&A

Most of the talk about F1 engines at the moment is on addressing concerns about the current rules. There is a meeting between senior figures due to take place this week. There is talk of altering the ratio between the internal combustion and electrical elements of the new engines, which is currently at nearly 50:50. The thinking is that a switch to more internal combustion engine power - for example by increasing the fuel flow - would help address the concerns that driving on the limit in qualifying has been compromised by the new engines. The drivers say this still needs to be addressed, but are realistic little more can be done this year after the rule changes that were made before Miami. Having said that, a number of senior figures have mentioned the idea of opening up straight-line mode - where the front and rear wings open to reduce drag - would be a quick fix on this front. At the moment, this is limited to certain zones. The argument is to make it free, and leave it up to driver/team choice. This would enable more energy recovery, as the drivers would brake more often. And that would reduce energy starvation. A change to the fuel-flow rate is likely not to come until 2028, because of the work that would be required to redesign the engines. But it is on the cards. Longer term, 2030 or 2031 is the next date for a new set of engine regulations. What that looks like will be defined in the next couple of years. …