What sidepods do
The sidepods are the bodywork sections on either side of an F1 car's cockpit. They serve two primary functions: cooling the power unit and managing the airflow around the car.
The cooling function is straightforward — the sidepods house the radiators that cool the engine, gearbox, and hybrid systems. Without adequate cooling, the power unit would overheat and fail.
The aerodynamic function is more complex. The sidepods shape the airflow that passes around the car's midsection, directing it toward the rear wing, diffuser, and beam wing. The way the sidepods are shaped determines how efficiently these downstream components can do their jobs.
The evolution of sidepod design
Sidepod design has changed dramatically over the decades. In the 1970s, sidepods were simple, boxy structures that housed the radiators. By the 2000s, they had become incredibly sculpted, with complex curves and undercuts designed to manage every aspect of the airflow.
The 2022 regulation changes introduced a new era of sidepod design. Mercedes' "zero-pod" concept — an extremely narrow sidepod design that eliminated the traditional sidepod bulge — was one of the most radical aerodynamic concepts in F1 history. While it ultimately proved less effective than conventional designs, it demonstrated the level of innovation that teams are willing to pursue.
Sidepod design as a team signature
Sidepod design is one of the most visible differences between teams. Each team's sidepod philosophy reflects their overall aerodynamic approach: Red Bull favors tight, undercut sidepods; Ferrari prefers broader, more conventional designs; Mercedes has experimented with the most radical concepts.
The sidepods are also one of the most frequently upgraded components during a season, as teams search for small improvements in airflow management.
The 2026 challenge
In the 2026 era, with lighter cars and different cooling requirements, sidepod design has become even more critical. The increased electrical component of the power unit generates more heat, requiring larger cooling surfaces. But larger sidepods create more drag. The balance between cooling and aerodynamics is one of the most important design challenges for 2026.