--- description: "Sidepod in F1 explained: what lives inside them, how they feed the diffuser, side impact structures, and why Mercedes zero-sidepod experiment failed." title: "Sidepod in F1: cooling, aerodynamics and zero-sidepod concept" image: https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/43-post-season-test-yasmarina-330x220.jpg --- [Skip to main content](#content) ![Change language](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/flags-svg/gb.svg?v=2) [![F1-Fansite.com](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/logo-mob.png)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/) ![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/2026-spa-header.jpg) [![Try F1 on Apple TV for 7 days](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/F1-Launch_Refresh2_Static_Affiliate_728x90_US-EN.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-on-apple-tv/) [![F1-Fansite.com](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/logo.png)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/) [Sign in](https://www.f1-fansite.com/login/) - [Home](https://www.f1-fansite.com/) - [F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/) - [F1 2026](https://www.f1-fansite.com/2026-formula-1-season/) - [F1 2027](https://www.f1-fansite.com/2027-formula-1-season/) - [All Time](https://www.f1-fansite.com/all-time-f1-archive/) - [F1 Stats](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-statistics/) - [Photos](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-wallpapers/) - [F1 Fans](https://www.f1-fansite.com/fans/) - [F1 Quiz](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-quizzes/) - [F1 Tickets](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-tickets/) - [F1 Merchandise](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-merchandise/) - Add to home screen [Sign in](https://www.f1-fansite.com/login/) [Next session![Sepang International Circuit](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/flags-svg/my.svg?v=2) MY Bahrain Grand Prix · FP100d 00h 00m 00s](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/bahrain-grand-prix/) [Next session![Sepang International Circuit](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/flags-svg/my.svg?v=2) MY Bahrain Grand Prix · FP100d 00h 00m 00s](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/bahrain-grand-prix/) # Sidepod [![sidepod](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/43-post-season-test-yasmarina-330x220.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/43-post-season-test-yasmarina.jpg) George Russell, Mercedes W13 with no sidepods **The sidepods are the two aerodynamic pods on either side of a Formula 1 chassis, housing the radiators and providing the largest single family of aero surfaces on the car.** The shape of the sidepod determines cooling flow, airflow to the diffuser, and now, since the 2022 regulations, much of the car's downforce potential. Every team rewrites its sidepod concept every winter. ## What are sidepods in F1? Sidepods are the shaped panels on the flanks of an F1 car, running from the trailing edge of the front tyres to the rear of the sidepod-integrated engine cover. Inside them sit the water and oil radiators, MGU-K electronics, ancillary cooling and part of the exhaust routing. Their outer skin is one of the most heavily worked aerodynamic surfaces on the car. ## What sidepods do - **Cool the car:** water and oil radiators live inside them, fed by the sidepod inlets; - **Guide airflow:** outer surfaces direct flow toward the floor and diffuser; - **Protect from side impact:** integrated side impact structures live along the sidepod cavity; - **Manage exhaust routing:** the exhaust exits over the top of the engine cover between the sidepods; - **Host driver cooling:** some sidepod cavities route air toward the driver. ## Sidepod concepts since 2022 The 2022 aerodynamic regulations changed the sidepod arms race dramatically. Mercedes launched the W13 with the famous "zero-sidepod" concept, running almost no upper bodywork on the flanks of the car. Ferrari, Red Bull and McLaren all developed more conventional inlet shapes. By 2024 most teams had converged on a downwash-heavy sidepod concept resembling the Red Bull RB18, and the zero-sidepod idea has largely been abandoned. ## Sidepod inlets and cooling The size and shape of the sidepod inlet determines how much cooling flow the radiators receive, and any team that runs too small an inlet risks overheating in hot conditions. Teams typically fit different cooling packages for hot events like Singapore and Bahrain than for cool European rounds, though every extra bit of cooling flow costs aerodynamic performance. ## Frequently asked questions about sidepods ### What are sidepods in F1? Sidepods are the shaped panels on the flanks of an F1 car that house the radiators and guide airflow toward the floor and diffuser. ### What do sidepods contain inside them? Water and oil radiators, MGU-K electronics, ancillary cooling systems, and integrated side impact structures. ### What was the Mercedes zero-sidepod concept? The 2022 Mercedes W13 launched with almost no upper bodywork on the sidepod flanks, an extreme interpretation of the regulations. The concept was abandoned by 2023 as it failed to produce enough downforce. ### Do sidepods play a role in safety? Yes. Side impact structures are built into the sidepod cavity, and they absorb energy in the event of a lateral impact. ### Why do teams change sidepod shape between circuits? To adjust cooling flow for the ambient temperature and to fine-tune the aerodynamic interaction with the floor and diffuser at each track. Last updated: 4 Jul 2026, 00:58 ### Join our FREE weekly F1 Newsletter Enter your email address & confirm your subscription You've already signed up, Thanks! Check your inbox now to confirm your subscription. ![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/plugins/sendpress//img/ajax-loader.gif) ### F1 News Categories - F1 Drivers - [Alexander Albon News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/alexander-albon-news/) - [Arvid Lindblad News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/arvid-lindblad-news/) - [Carlos Sainz News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/carlos-sainz-news/) - [Charles Leclerc News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/charles-leclerc-news/) - [Esteban Ocon News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/esteban-ocon-news/) - [Fernando Alonso News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/fernando-alonso-news/) - [Franco Colapinto News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/franco-colapinto-news/) - [Gabriel Bortoleto News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/gabriel-bortoleto-news/) - [George Russell News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/george-russell-news/) - [Isack Hadjar News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/isack-hadjar-news/) - [Kimi Antonelli News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/kimi-antonelli-news/) - [Lance Stroll News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/lance-stroll-news/) - [Lando Norris News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/lando-norris-news/) - [Lewis Hamilton News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/lewis-hamilton-news/) - [Liam Lawson News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/liam-lawson-news/) - [Max Verstappen News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/max-verstappen-news/) - [Nico Hulkenberg News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/nico-hulkenberg-news/) - [Oliver Bearman News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/oliver-bearman-news/) - [Oscar Piastri News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/oscar-piastri-news/) - [Pierre Gasly News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/pierre-gasly-news/) - [Sergio Perez News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/sergio-perez-news/) - [Valtteri Bottas News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/valtteri-bottas-news/) - Paddock - [Alan Permane News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/alan-permane/) - [Adrian Newey News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/adrian-newey/) - [Andrea Stella News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/andrea-stella-news/) - [Ayao Komatsu News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/ayao-komatsu-news/) - [Bernie Ecclestone News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/ecclestone-news/) - [Flavio Briatore News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/flavio-briatore/) - [Frederic Vasseur News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/frederic-vasseur-news/) - [Graeme Lowdon News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/graeme-lowdon-news/) - [Günther Steiner News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/gunther-steiner-news/) - [Helmut Marko News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/helmut-marko-news/) - [James Vowles News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/james-vowles-news/) - [Laurent Mekies News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/laurent-mekies-news/) - [Lawrence Stroll News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/lawrence-stroll-news/) - [Mattia Binotto News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/mattia-binotto-news/) - [Pirelli F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/pirelli-f1-news/) - [Toto Wolff News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/toto-wolff/) - [Zak Brown News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/zak-brown-news/) - Topic - [F1 Crash](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-crash/) - [F1 Death](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-death/) - [F1 Penalty](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-penalty/) - [F1 Development](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-development/) - [F1 Engine](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-engine/) - [F1 Fun](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-fun/) - [F1 Future](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-future/) - [F1 Gossip](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-gossip/) - [F1 History](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-history/) - [F1 injury](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-injury/) - [F1 Lawsuit](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-lawsuit/) - [F1 Money](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-money/) - [F1 Regulations](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-regulations/) - [F1 Rumours](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-rumours/) - [F1 Silly Season](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/silly-season/) - [F1 Sponsor](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-sponsor/) - [F1 Technical](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-technical/) - [F1 Testing](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-testing/) - [FIA News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/fia/) - F1 Teams - [Alpine F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/alpine-f1-team-news/ "Alpine F1 Team Updates") - [Aston Martin F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/aston-martin-f1-news/ "Aston Martin F1 Team Updates") - [Audi F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/audi-f1-news/) - [Cadillac F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/cadillac-f1-news/) - [Ferrari F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/ferrari-f1-news/ "Scuderia Ferrari Updates") - [Haas F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/haas-f1-news/ "Haas F1 Team Updates") - [McLaren News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/mclaren-news/ "Mclaren F1 Team Updates") - [Mercedes F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/mercedes-f1-news/ "Mercedes F1 Team Updates") - [Red Bull Racing News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/red-bull-racing-news/ "Red Bull Racing F1 Team Updates") - [Racing Bulls News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/visa-cash-app-racing-bulls-news/) - [Williams News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/williams-news/ "Williams F1 Team Updates") - Ex-F1 Drivers - [Antonio Giovinazzi News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/antonio-giovinazzi-news/) - [Daniel Ricciardo News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/daniel-ricciardo-news/) - [Jack Doohan News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/jack-doohan-news/) - [Kevin Magnussen News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/kevin-magnussen-news/) - [Kimi Raikkonen News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/kimi-raikkonen-news/) - [Logan Sargeant News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/logan-sargeant-news/) - [Marcus Ericsson News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/marcus-ericsson-news/) - [Michael Schumacher News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/michael-schumacher-news/) - [Mick Schumacher News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/mick-schumacher-news/) - [Nico Rosberg News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/nico-rosberg-news/) - [Romain Grosjean News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/romain-grosjean-news/) - [Sebastian Vettel News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/sebastian-vettel-news/) - [Yuki Tsunoda News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/yuki-tsunoda-news/) ### This Weeks Top 3 Trending F1 Topics - [![McLaren brings its reworked H-wing back for Baku](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/wordpress-popular-posts/354230-featured-150x150.jpg)McLaren brings its reworked H-wing back for Baku1 comment | posted 6 days ago](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/mclaren-brings-its-reworked-h-wing-back-for-baku/) - [![Wolff admits he cannot explain Russell's fade behind Antonelli](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/wordpress-popular-posts/354233-featured-150x150.jpg)Wolff admits he cannot explain Russell's fade behi...1 comment | posted 6 days ago](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/wolff-admits-he-cannot-explain-russells-fade-behind-antonelli/) - [![Previewing the 2026 Azerbaijan GP: Can Norris or Verstappen beat Antonelli and Mercedes?](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/wordpress-popular-posts/354380-featured-150x150.jpg)Previewing the 2026 Azerbaijan GP: Can Norris or V...2 comments | posted 5 days ago](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/previewing-the-2026-azerbaijan-gp-can-norris-or-verstappen-beat-antonelli-and-mercedes/) ### Get Your Tickets For Next Events - ![Singapore Circuit](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/flags-svg/sg.svg?v=2) 2026 Singapore F1 GP2026 Singapore F1 Grand Prix9–11 Oct SingaporeSingapore Circuit In 14 days [Tickets from €154 →](https://www.f1-fansite.com/buy/?gp=Singapore) - ![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/flags-svg/mx.svg?v=2) 2026 Mexico F1 GP2026 Mexico F1 Grand Prix23–25 Oct Autodromo H. RodriguezAutodromo H. Rodriguez In 28 days [Tickets from €483 →](https://www.f1-fansite.com/buy/?gp=Mexico) - ![Circuit of The Americas](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/flags-svg/us.svg?v=2) 2026 USA F1 GP2026 USA F1 Grand Prix23–25 Oct AustinCircuit of The Americas In 28 days [Tickets from €77 →](https://www.f1-fansite.com/buy/?gp=USA) [All F1 Tickets →](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-tickets/) ### LAST 3 F1 Fan COMMENTS - ![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/502d29f8cbb897956d66858c8db3a5e6.jpg?ver=1790172314) [Jere Jyrälä](https://www.f1-fansite.com/fan/jere-jyrala/) on [2026 Azerbaijan Formula 1 Grand Prix Results & Report](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-result/2026-azerbaijan-formula-1-grand-prix-results-report/#comment-432274)14 hours ago - ![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/502d29f8cbb897956d66858c8db3a5e6.jpg?ver=1790172314) [Jere Jyrälä](https://www.f1-fansite.com/fan/jere-jyrala/) on [Binotto finally ends rumours over Audi 2027 driver line-up](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/binotto-finally-ends-rumours-over-audi-2027-driver-line-up/#comment-432273)15 hours ago - ![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/9b6cbbe072368790b9780f0dbca38f0c.jpg?ver=1790183113) [Shroppyfly](https://www.f1-fansite.com/fan/shroppyfly/) on [Horner leaves the door open for a Ferrari role](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/horner-leaves-the-door-open-for-a-ferrari-role/#comment-432272)22 hours ago [All F1 Fan Comments](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-comments-on-f1-fansite-com/) ### Latest F1 Quiz [![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/baku-gp-history-quiz-330x186.jpg)Before Baku: The Azerbaijan GP History Quiz10 questionsFans average 50%](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-quizzes/before-baku-the-azerbaijan-gp-history-quiz/) [All F1 quizzes](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-quizzes/) ### F1 Glossary Menu - [Active Suspension](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/active-suspension/) - [ADUO](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/aduo-system/) - [Aerodynamics](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/aerodynamics/) - [Backmarker](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/backmarker/) - [Bargeboard](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/bargeboard/) - [Blistering](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/blistering/) - [Blue flag](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/blue-flag/) - [Bodywork](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/bodywork/) - [Brake Balance](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/brake-balance/) - [Camber](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/camber/) - [CE (Control Electronics)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/ce-control-electronics/) - [Chassis](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/chassis/) - [Chicane](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/chicane/) - [Clean air](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/clean-air/) - [Cockpit](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/cockpit/) - [Compound](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/compound/) - [Debrief](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/debrief/) - [Degradation (deg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/degradation/) - [Diffuser](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/diffuser/) - [Dirty air](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/dirty-air/) - [Disqualified](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/disqualified/) - [DNF](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/dnf/) - [Downforce](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/downforce/) - [Drag](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/drag/) - [Drive-through penalty](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/drive-through-penalty/) - [DRS - Drag Reduction System](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/drs-drag-reduction-system/) - [ECU (Engine Control Unit)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/ecu-engine-control-unit/) - [ES (Energy Store)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/es-energy-store/) - [EX (Engine Exhaust System)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/ex-engine-exhaust-system/) - [FIA (Federation Internationale de l Automobile)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/fia-federation-internationale-de-lautomobile/) - [Formation Lap](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/formation-lap/) - [Fuel Rig](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/fuel-rig/) - [G-force](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/g-force/) - [GPDA (Grand Prix Drivers Association)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/gdpa-grand-prix-drivers-association/) - [Graining](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/graining/) - [Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/grand-prix/) - [Grid](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/grid/) - [Grip](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/grip/) - [Ground Effect](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/ground-effect/) - [Halo](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/halo/) - [HANS Device in Formula 1 Racing](https://www.f1-fansite.com/hans-device-in-formula-1-racing/) - [ICE (Internal Combustion Engine)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/ice-internal-combustion-engine/) - [IP (Intellectual Property)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/ip-intellectual-property/) - [Installation Lap](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/installation-lap/) - [Intermediates](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/intermediates/) - [Jump start](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/jump-start/) - [Lock-up](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/lock-up/) - [Marbles](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/marbles/) - [Marshal](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/marshal/) - [MGU-H](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/mgu-h-motor-generator-unit-heat/) - [MGU-K](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/mgu-k-motor-generator-unit-kinetic/) - [Monocoque](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/monocoque/) - [Overcut](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/overcut/) - [Oversteer](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/oversteer/) - [Out-brake](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/out-brake/) - [Paddock](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/paddock/) - [Parc Fermé](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/parc-ferme/) - [Pits](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/pits/) - [Pit board](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/pit-board/) - [Pit crew](https://www.f1-fansite.com/pit-crew/) - [Pit lane](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/pit-lane/) - [Pit stop](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/pit-stop/) - [Pit wall](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/pit-wall/) - [Plank](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/the-plank-in-formula-1-cars/) - [Podium](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/podium/) - [Pole position](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/pole-position/) - [Power Unit](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/power-unit/ "Power Unit in F1 Explained") - [Qualifying](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/qualifying/) - [Retirement](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/retirement/) - [Race engineer](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/race-engineer/) - [Red flag](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/red-flag/) - [Safety Car](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/safety-car/) - [Scrutineering](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/scrutineering/) - [Sidepod](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/sidepod/) - [Shakedown](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/shakedown/) - [Slicks](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/slicks/) - [Slipstream](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/slipstream/) - [Steward](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/steward/) - [Stop-and-go penalty](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/stop-and-go-penalty/) - [Straight Mode](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/straight-mode/ "Straight Mode in Formula 1 explained") - [FIA Super Licence](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/super-licence-fia/) - [Suspension](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/suspension/) - [Traction Control](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/traction-control/) - [Tear-off](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/tear-off/) - [Telemetry](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/telemetry/) - [Torque](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/torque/) - [Traction](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/traction/) - [Turbocharger (TC)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/turbo-charger-tc/) - [Turbulence](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/turbulence/) - [Tyre blanket](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/tyre-blanket/) - [Tyre strategy](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/tyre-strategy/) - [Undercut](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/undercut/) - [Vortex Generator](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/vortex-generator/) - [VSC (Virtual Safety Car)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/vsc-virtual-safety-car/) - [Wheel gun](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/wheel-gun/) - [Wind tunnel correlation](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/wind-tunnel-correlation/) - [Wing endplate](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/wing-endplate/) - [Yellow flag](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/yellow-flag/) ### Last News Update - [![Cadillac now builds senior aero team from five title rivals](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/47-saturday-spa-francorchamps-2026-150x150.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/cadillac-now-builds-senior-aero-team-from-five-title-rivals/) #### [Cadillac now builds senior aero team from five title rivals](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/cadillac-now-builds-senior-aero-team-from-five-title-rivals/)September 26, 2026 ### Latest Column - [![How Digital Technology Is Changing the F1 Fan Experience](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/SI202209040849_news-150x150.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-column/how-digital-technology-is-changing-the-f1-fan-experience/) #### [How Digital Technology Is Changing the F1 Fan Experience](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-column/how-digital-technology-is-changing-the-f1-fan-experience/)September 25, 2026 ### Latest Video Update - [![Peter Windsor's Analysis of George Russell's Win at Baku](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/M630838_F1_Grand_Prix_of_Azerbaijan_Practice-150x150.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-videos/peter-windsors-analysis-of-george-russells-win-at-baku/) #### [Peter Windsor's Analysis of George Russell's Win at Baku](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-videos/peter-windsors-analysis-of-george-russells-win-at-baku/)September 26, 2026 ### Newest Pictures - [![Photos of Friday Practice before the 2026 Italian F1 GP](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/32-friday-monza-2026-150x150.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-wallpaper/photos-of-friday-practice-before-the-2026-italian-f1-gp/) #### [Photos of Friday Practice before the 2026 Italian F1 GP](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-wallpaper/photos-of-friday-practice-before-the-2026-italian-f1-gp/)September 4, 2026 ### Last Classification - [![2026 Azerbaijan Formula 1 Grand Prix Results \& Report](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/33-baku-saturday-2026-UHD-150x150.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-result/2026-azerbaijan-formula-1-grand-prix-results-report/) #### [2026 Azerbaijan Formula 1 Grand Prix Results & Report](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-result/2026-azerbaijan-formula-1-grand-prix-results-report/)September 26, 2026 | 7 ### Newest Sound or Podcast - [![F1 Explains: Junior Categories with F3 Champion Ugo Ugochukwu](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/1017648185-LAT-20190804-1017648180-LAT-20190804-_R3I5016-496-150x150.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-sound/f1-explains-junior-categories-with-f3-champion-ugo-ugochukwu/) #### [F1 Explains: Junior Categories with F3 Champion Ugo Ugochukwu](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-sound/f1-explains-junior-categories-with-f3-champion-ugo-ugochukwu/)September 25, 2026 ### TOP 5 Popular F1 Drivers - [Kimi Antonelli](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/kimi-antonelli/) - [Franco Colapinto](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/franco-colapinto/) - [Sergio Pérez](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/sergio-perez/) - [Max Verstappen](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/max-verstappen-information-statistics/) - [Lewis Hamilton](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/lewis-hamilton/) [All F1 drivers](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/) ### TOP 5 Popular F1 Teams - [Ferrari F1 Team](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-teams/ferrari-f1-information-statistics/) - [Mercedes F1 Team](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-teams/mercedes/) - [Aston Martin F1 Team](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-teams/aston-martin-f1-team-information-statistics/) - [Red Bull Racing F1 Team](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-teams/red-bull-racing/) - [Cadillac F1 Team](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-teams/cadillac-f1-team-stats-info/) [All F1 teams](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-teams/) ### TOP 5 Popular F1 Races - [2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/azerbaijan-grand-prix-f1-race-information/) - [2026 Monaco Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/monaco-grand-prix/) - [2026 Dutch Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/dutch-grand-prix-f1-race-info/) - [2026 Austrian Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/austrian-grand-prix-f1-race-information/) - [2026 Las Vegas Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/las-vegas-grand-prix-f1-race-info/) [Full F1 calendar](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/) ### TOP 5 Popular F1 Content - [2026 F1 Standings Championship](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-results/f1-standings-2026-championship/) - [F1 Merchandise](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-merchandise/) - [F1 On This Day](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-on-this-day/) - [F1 Driver Comparison Tool](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/f1-driver-comparison/) - [Login](https://www.f1-fansite.com/login/) [All Time F1 content](https://www.f1-fansite.com/all-time-f1-archive/) - [Follow us on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvgDhPFOF_RoheMLEmX8xCg) - [Follow us on X](https://twitter.com/f1fansite) - [Follow us on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/f1fansite) - [Follow us on Pinterest](https://pinterest.com/f1fansite/) - [Follow us on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/f1fansite.com_official/) - [Subscribe to our RSS feed](https://www.f1-fansite.com/feed/) [About](https://www.f1-fansite.com/about-us/) [Contact](https://www.f1-fansite.com/contact/) [Editorial Policy](https://www.f1-fansite.com/editorial-policy/) [Advertising](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-advertising/) [Disclaimer](https://www.f1-fansite.com/disclaimer/) [Privacy Policy](https://www.f1-fansite.com/privacy-policy/) [Cookie Policy](https://www.f1-fansite.com/cookie-policy/) © 2001-2026 F1-Fansite.com. All rights reserved. Powered by [ProTrix](https://protrix.nl). Not affiliated with Formula 1 or the FIA. Scroll to top × ![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/logo-mob.png) **Add F1-Fansite to your home screen** One tap and it’s on your home screen, like an app. Add 1. 1 Tap at the bottom of your screen 2. 2 Then pick “Add to Home Screen”
Share X Facebook WhatsApp Reddit Copy link
```json {"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/sidepod/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":"1","item":{"@id":"https://www.f1-fansite.com","name":"Home"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":"2","item":{"@id":"https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/","name":"Glossary"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":"3","item":{"@id":"https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/sidepod/","name":"Sidepod"}}]}]} {"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"FAQPage","mainEntity":[{"@type":"Question","name":"What are sidepods in F1?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Sidepods are the shaped panels on the flanks of an F1 car that house the radiators and guide airflow toward the floor and diffuser."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What do sidepods contain inside them?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Water and oil radiators, MGU-K electronics, ancillary cooling systems, and integrated side impact structures."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What was the Mercedes zero-sidepod concept?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The 2022 Mercedes W13 launched with almost no upper bodywork on the sidepod flanks. It was abandoned by 2023 as it failed to produce enough downforce."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Do sidepods play a role in safety?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes. Side impact structures are built into the sidepod cavity to absorb energy in the event of a lateral impact."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Why do teams change sidepod shape between circuits?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"To adjust cooling flow for the ambient temperature and to fine-tune the aerodynamic interaction with the floor and diffuser."}}]} ```