Refuelling to return to F1

Refuelling is set to return to Formula One from 2017, as part of a range of measures designed to make the sport more exciting.
Last seen during the 2009 season, pit stop refuelling was originally discontinued due to cost implications, with cars subsequently forced to start with full fuel load.

However, facing falling audience figures, the F1 Strategy Group – which comprises of FIA president Jean Todt, Formula One Group chief executive Bernie Ecclestone, as well as representatives from leading teams – has decided to reintroduce refuelling - a move that could see cars become around five seconds a lap faster.

However, the maximum fuel race allowance of 100kg, and the maximum fuel-flow rate of 100kg per hour, will remain in place.

Further measures to be introduced from the 2017 season include higher revving and noisier engines, as both fans and race organisers alike have bemoaned the lack of aural excitement from the cars' new 1.6-litre turbocharged motors.

From 2016, teams will have a free choice of four different tyre types for each race, and revisions to the size of the cars have also been tabled. The design of the cars is also set to get more aggressive, with 'more spectacular aero kit,' according to Mercedes F1 boss Toto Wolff.

Speaking to the BBC, he said: "We have agreed to increase the width of the cars and tyres, and have larger front and rear wings. We want to ban the driver-aid aspect of starts, so no pre-calibrated starts and have the drivers start using hand clutches."

The proposals put forward by the F1 Strategy Group will need to pass through two further legislative stages before being approved.

What would you change to make F1 more exciting? Let us know in the comments section below.