The FIA is considering re-implementing driver weight ballast regulations in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) for the current season, potentially affecting both racing classes starting at the Qatar Prologue test.

The proposed system would set an average weight requirement of 82 kg per driver line-up, including equipment. Cars would receive ballast adjustments to meet this target based on their drivers' weights - adding weight for lighter teams and removing it for heavier ones.

This marks a return to previous regulations from the LMP1 Hybrid era, where the average weight requirement was 80 kg. The rule was discontinued at the start of the Hypercar era but is now being reconsidered after concerns about lighter drivers gaining unfair advantages by offsetting BoP ballast.

Key considerations still pending include:

• Frequency of driver weigh-ins throughout the season
• Compliance penalties
• Implementation of random weight checks
• Official confirmation and detailed regulations

According to racing teams, weight differences can significantly impact performance:

• LMGT3: Approximately 0.15 seconds per 10 kg per lap
• Hypercar: Estimated 0.3 seconds per 10 kg per lap

While mandatory weigh-ins have begun, the FIA has not yet issued an official bulletin confirming the new regulations, and teams await final details of the implementation.

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