Red Bull Motorsports
F1
Formula 1 suspension explained
Discover how suspension systems in Formula 1 play a pivotal role in performance, from handling and tire wear to strategic setup.
Formula 1 drivers push their cars to the limit on every turn, and yet, it’s often the unseen elements that make the biggest difference in a race. One of the most critical aspects of an F1 car’s performance is its suspension system, a finely tuned element that can make or break time on the track.
Red Bull F1 racer Max Verstappen knows the importance of proper suspension in competition. His participation in the 2020 Hungarian Grand Prix was almost over before the race started. While making his way to the starting position, he caught out on the wet track, damaging the RB16 car’s front wing and suspension. His team came together and fixed the suspension with only 25 seconds remaining before the race started. Thanks to the suspension repair job, Verstappen placed second.
Max made a blistering start in damp conditions to set up his second place
© Getty Images/Red Bull Content Pool
“I was already struggling for grip; I basically locked up and I couldn't get out of it and went straight into the wall,” Verstappen told ESPN. “I think the track rod and the pull rod were broken, so they are the easier things to quickly change but [the team] did an amazing job at doing that.”
How does suspension work in a Formula 1 car, and why is it so crucial to staying, quite literally, on track?
01
What is suspension in Formula 1?
At its core, the suspension system in a Formula 1 car is responsible for maintaining stability and control. In simple terms, suspension refers to the parts — springs and dampers with a push-rod or a pull-rod — that connect the car to its wheels. Anti-roll bars are also present to act as stabilizers.
The suspension's role is to absorb shocks from uneven surfaces, keeping the tires in optimal contact with the track. Springs provide the necessary support, dampers control the energy from the springs, and anti-roll bars minimize the car's roll during high-speed turns. Together, these components form the backbone of an F1 car’s performance.
The new Oracle Red Bull Racing RB20 looks aggressive from the front
© Will Cornelius/Red Bull Content Pool
02
Types of suspension used in Formula 1
The F1 suspension system has evolved over decades as teams experiment with different designs to maximize performance. Two main suspension types have dominated the scene:
- Push-rod suspension: In this more common design, the push-rod transfers forces from the lower part of the wheel diagonally to a high chassis point. On bumps, the wheel pushes against the rod, springs, and dampers. Push-rods can offer greater stability over pull-rod systems in certain scenarios.
- Pull-rod suspension: Pull-rods go higher on the wheel and lower on the chassis. When the car hits a bump, the wheel pulls the rod, springs, and damper to absorb the shock. Pull-rod suspension also enhances the car’s cornering abilities because weight is properly distributed, with heavier parts closer to the track.
- This design is slightly harder to adjust since it requires floor removal for front access, but its key advantage is that it’s better at lowering the car’s center of gravity. This makes it better suited for ground effects.
Each suspension type comes with trade-offs. Push-rods offer ease in setup but can hinder ground effect efficiency, while pull-rods provide aerodynamic gains at the cost of more complex adjustments. Many teams, including Red Bull, Mercedes, and Ferrari, opt for a hybrid approach with one suspension type in front and the other in the rear.
Max Verstappen puts the new RB20 through its paces in Bahrain
© Getty Images/Red Bull Content Pool
03
Evolution of suspension in Formula 1
Racing suspension design has undergone significant changes since F1’s inception. In the early days, suspension systems were fairly rudimentary and offered basic functionality. However, as cars got faster in the '60s, teams began to invest in suspension technology, like double wishbone suspension, to handle the increased speed. The combination of strength and lightweight build brought a more controlled ride.
The '80s brought a new day for suspension technology. Active suspension was incorporated into F1 cars, allowing teams to alter their car’s suspension in real-time with computer aid. It wasn’t until the '90s that active suspension grew in popularity. An upgrade in this era gave teams the ability to automatically tune the car’s height at each corner. This prevented the vehicle from leaning thanks to the adjustments creating a flat and stable position during any bends. But drivers wouldn’t be able to enjoy this improvement for long. Active suspension was banned in 1994 due to complexity and high costs.
By 1997, to advance their suspension, teams started using inerters. This device is fitted in the suspension setup, using small flywheels which react to movements by absorbing energy. Inerters were prohibited in 2022.
Another new suspension aspect was introduced in 2013. Mercedes AMG F1 and Lotus F1 teams started using front and rear inter-connected (FRIC) suspension systems. FRIC suspension allows cars to stay at a consistent height when braking, accelerating, and cornering.
Modern suspension setup in F1 is defined by new technology developed under tight regulatory frameworks. Teams continue to find new ways to maximize performance under the FIA’s strict rules.
The RB20 was fastest on Day One of testing
© Getty Images/Red Bull Content Pool
Related
04
How suspension affects performance
In a sport where milliseconds matter, suspension settings are critical. Perfecting the setup affects how well a car handles turns, accelerates out of corners, and responds to high-speed straights. Teams often adjust suspension to suit specific track conditions, balancing stiffness for better handlingcorn or softer settings for greater speed. For example, at Monaco, teams may add steering arms to their setup for a better navigation angle on the notoriously narrow circuit.
Additionally, a well-tuned suspension system reduces unnecessary tire wear, allowing drivers to maintain grip longer into the race. Wheels are the only contact point between the car and the track, and suspension settings can significantly affect their longevity. Good tire grip is essential to an easy ride over bumps and getting through curbs without tipping — and steady suspension helps keep tires in contact with the track.
05
Suspension setup: A strategic element in races
Race strategies in F1 are incredibly nuanced, and suspension setup is one key area where teams make tactical decisions based on where they’re racing. Different tracks present unique challenges, and the suspension setup must be adjusted accordingly.
For example, Florida’s Sebring track or Germany’s Nürburgring circuit, and specifically its Nordschleife track, has bumpy terrain. Drivers must balance softer coil springs with a raised car height. This suspension setup helps them maintain control while preventing the car from bottoming out.
But when racing at smoother tracks like England’s Silverstone circuit, where high-speed cornering is prevalent, cars may benefit from a stiffer setup. Tightening the FST bump is one way drivers increase handling precision.
Moreover, drivers often have personal preferences when it comes to suspension, requiring teams to strike a balance between optimal performance and individual comfort. Getting this balance right can be a deciding factor on race day.
06
The future of suspension in Formula 1
Formula 1 car mechanics are constantly evolving. In 2026, new regulations will require teams to make their cars 66 pounds (30kg) lighter. Suspension considerations will be essential when exploring materials that offer greater flexibility and reduced weight.
Some have speculated that active suspension might make a comeback. Fans believe it could prevent balance changes and support a more favorable overall performance outcome. They also argue it wouldn’t dampen overtaking abilities and would better address cornering.
The integration of advanced sensors and real-time data analysis in an area to watch. Telemetric technology involves mounting sensors that record data on everything from speed and acceleration to fuel usage and tire temperature. This shows immense potential for better suspension performance, as this information could help teams determine more precise suspension adjustments, allowing cars to perform optimally under varying track conditions.
The importance of suspension in Formula 1 cars
Suspension systems are a crucial component of Formula 1 car mechanics, influencing everything from handling to tire management. It’s a strategic asset that teams leverage to gain an edge over their competitors. Whether adapting to track conditions, enhancing aerodynamic efficiency, or aligning with driver preferences, suspension plays a critical role in every race strategy.
Looking forward, suspension design will only become more sophisticated. Though regulations keep some innovations at bay, the pursuit of perfection in F1 suspension is relentless, promising faster, more thrilling races in the coming seasons.
