Formula One racing is rocket science.
And not only so because of the technological level of the cars, but also because fully understanding the ever-changing regulations has been basically impossible for the average fan. The rules seem to be fairly well understood by the teams, though. They tend to quickly maximize what is allowed for the engine, tire and aerodynamic package.
Improving the team's performance costs a lot of money for very little gain. For example, at Interlagos, Brazil in 2008, Felipe Massa (Ferrari: approx annual budget $415M) qualified only 1,14 s faster than the slowest of the pack, Adrian Sutil (Force India: approx annual budget $122M) over a 4,31 km circuit. However, after 71 laps, that makes a big difference. Or, at least, it makes a difference that the fans can see.
In 2009, the rules have changed again and Red Bull Racing have prepared a short animation movie explaining the main impacts on the cars.
The 2009 season starts in just a month.
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