Driver compensation ballast rules have been implemented in the FIA WEC's Hypercar and LMGT3 classes for the 2025 season, starting with the Qatar opener. The new system ensures fairness for teams with heavier or taller drivers.

The reference crew weight is set at 82 kg. Teams with crews averaging below this weight must add compensatory ballast to their vehicles. The calculation method works as follows:

1. Add the weights of all three drivers (including safety gear)
2. Divide by three to get the average
3. Calculate difference from 82 kg reference weight
4. Round up to nearest integer for final ballast weight

Example calculation:

• Driver 1: 77.8 kg
• Driver 2: 80.2 kg
• Driver 3: 82.9 kg
• Average: (77.8 + 80.2 + 82.9)/3 = 80.3 kg
• Required ballast: 2 kg (rounded up from 1.7 kg)

Key implementation details:

• Hypercar class: Ballast must be placed in homologated BOP positions within wheelbase
• LMGT3 class: Ballast must be installed in cockpit ballast box
• Qualifying has separate "compensated minimum car weight" calculations
• Random weight checks possible up to one hour before qualifying
• Penalties apply if drivers weigh less than declared

Teams are responsible for calculating and applying the correct ballast weight according to these regulations.

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