Formula 1 A-Z Glossary: What Do F1 Terms Starting With 'B' Mean?

Formula 1 is filled with technical jargons that can be confusing for new fans and learning them makes it easier to understand race commentary, team radio messages, and race strategy. In the second part of the A-Z Formula 1 Glossary series, here’s everything you need to know about the ‘B’ terms used in Formula 1.

Ballast

Ballast refers to the additional weight deliberately added to an F1 car in order to meet the minimum weight limit set by the regulations. The Ballast is strategically placed in order to improve weight distribution, center of gravity, and overall handling and balance. Engineers can move ballast around the car depending on the circuit to maximize performance as it is one of the simplest yet most effective setup tools available to teams.

Bargeboard

Bargeboards are vertical aerodynamic panels positioned between the front wheels and the sidepods responsible to guide airflow smoothly around the car. Better airflow improves the downforce, aerodynamic efficiency and overall stability. Although regulations have changed over the years, bargeboards remain an important aerodynamic concept in Formula 1 design.

Battery

In modern Formula 1, the battery is officially known as the energy store and forms the part of the hybrid power unit introduced in 2014. Energy recovered during braking is stored in the battery and later used to provide additional power. All teams have a limited number of energy stores available each season and exceeding this can result in grid penalties.

Black Flag

The black flag is one of the most serious flags in Formula 1. When shown alongside a driver’s car number, it means that the driver has been disqualified from the session or the race, and must immediately return to pits. This flag is rarely used but represents the highest level of sporting penalty during a race.