Article C13.9

Headrest Load Test

Technical Regulations

Article C13.9

FIA Source

Headrest Load Test

Chapter: SECTION C: TECHNICAL REGULATIONS

In Simple Terms

F1 seats must have a headrest that can withstand a significant load test to protect drivers' necks in crashes. The test applies a force based on the headrest's weight, and the headrest must stay securely attached without breaking or coming loose during this stress test.

  • Headrest must withstand a load calculated as 700 times its own weight in Newtons
  • The attachment pegs must remain engaged and the backing structure must not fail during testing
  • Load is applied through spreader plates positioned 80-180mm from the centerline to simulate realistic impact forces
  • Quick release mountings must function properly without failure under this extreme load
Official FIA Text

Load test P=(700×mHR)N applied to headrest. Pegs must remain engaged, no failure of backing structure or quick release mountings. Load spreader plates between 80-180mm from centerplane.

headrestload testsafety equipmentdriver protectionseat structure
2026 Season Regulations