George Russell, Mercedes W13, Sergio Perez, Red Bull Racing RB18
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How F1's new cars satisfied their architect

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F1’s big 2022 rules reset was needed to generate unpredictability and close racing – and make competition more sustainable for all. PAT SYMONDS was central to shaping the regulations and is delighted by the diversity of car designs so far

After three days watching on site in Barcelona, in what was termed a shakedown rather than a test, and with all the caveats associated with pre-season testing, it was interesting to reflect on the true birth of Formula 1’s new era, what was unexpected and what bodes for the season ahead.

I write this before the season proper has started and, as I have written about before, the idea of analysing the lap times and determining the likely 2022 world champion is a flight of fancy only undertaken by those who don’t know how much they don’t know.

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