F1: The Movie, released in June, has sped past 3.73 million admissions at the Korean box office, setting a record as the highest-grossing sports film in global history. The blockbuster has ignited a nationwide motorsport fever, prompting a closer look at Formula 1 and the cutting-edge science and technology that power it.

Formula One is a professional open-wheel racing championship organized by the FIA. Around 20 Grands Prix are held at circuits across the globe. The competition features 10 teams, each consisting of two drivers, a team principal, and numerous engineers and mechanics. Points are awarded based on each Grand Prix result, and at the end of the season, the driver and team with the highest totals are crowned champions.

In F1, various scientific technologies come into play, with tires and aerodynamics standing out as two of the most decisive factors in performance. All F1 tires are supplied exclusively by Pirelli, with five distinct types available. Dry tires offer varying balances of grip and durability and are classified as hard, medium, or soft. Wet tires, designed for damp or rainy conditions, feature grooves for water dispersal and come in two types: intermediates and full wets. Since tire friction, grip, and deformation characteristics influence race pace, the choice of tire and temperature management is critical.

With cars reaching speeds of up to 340 km/h, the science of aerodynamics is essential for both top speed and cornering performance. High downforce enhances grip and stability in corners. At the front of the car, the front wing manages dirty air from the tires, channeling clean airflow along the floor and sides, while the rear wing balances the car and, when the DRS is activated, alters airflow to boost speed.

With the runaway success of F1: The Movie fueling public interest in Formula 1, we can expect an even richer viewing experience in the remaining Grands Prix of the season, with fans now armed with these insights.

하승연 강남포스트 학생기자  webmaster@ignnews.kr

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