The 2026 season marks a defining milestone for Formula 1, introducing simultaneous changes to both chassis design and power units, representing the sport’s most comprehensive regulatory overhaul to date. These regulations are intended to reset the competitive landscape, generate fresh sporting intrigue and deliver closer, more compelling racing on track.
Below is an overview of the key changes and their implications for Formula 1 in 2026.
Chassis and aerodynamics
Smaller and lighter:
Cars will be more compact and agile, with wheelbase reduced by 200mm to 3400mm, overall width cut by 100mm to 1900mm, and floor width narrowed by 150mm. Minimum weight is reduced by 30kg to 770kg, all contributing to improved responsiveness and raceability.
Reduced downforce:
Total downforce is reduced by approximately 15–30%, largely due to the removal of ground-effect floor tunnels. This is designed to lessen wake turbulence and encourage closer racing.
Reduced drag:
Overall aerodynamic drag will be reduced by up to 40%, improving efficiency and allowing cars to race more closely while maintaining high speeds.
Active aerodynamics:
The traditional Drag Reduction System (DRS) is replaced by movable front and rear wings. These allow drivers to switch between high- and low-downforce configurations, delivering additional grip or straight-line speed precisely when required.
Tyres:
The 18-inch wheel format remains, but tyre dimensions are refined. Front tyres are 25mm narrower and rear tyres 30mm narrower, helping to reduce drag and overall mass.
Power Unit
~50/50 power split:
The power balance shifts to an approximate 50% contribution from the internal combustion engine (ICE) and 50% from electric power, marking a significant evolution in hybrid performance.
Simplified hybrid system:
The MGU-H is removed, while the MGU-K sees a substantial increase in output, rising from 120kW to 350kW. This delivers stronger acceleration, enhanced overtaking capability and greater impact on straight-line performance.
Sustainable fuel:
All cars will run on advanced sustainable fuel, achieving major environmental progress without compromising performance or racing spectacle.
What About The Drivers?
This new generation of Formula 1 places greater responsibility directly in the driver’s hands. Decisions on energy deployment, regeneration, and conservation are critical performance factors. How drivers manage these elements tactically, lap by lap, will be central to race outcomes and to a fuller appreciation of their skill, intelligence, and racecraft.
developing changes
The terminology and framework for these regulations were developed in close collaboration with the FIA, Formula 1 teams and engineers. F1 then tested and refined this language with both new and long-standing fans to better understand how it is received and interpreted. This process included extensive third-party polling and engagement with their 50,000-strong ‘Fan Voice’ community.
F1’s objective was to avoid gimmicks and unnecessary jargon. Feedback consistently showed that fans valued clear, objective, and meaningful language. At the same time, the technical depth of the regulations had to be respected and accurately communicated, ensuring that new terms genuinely supported informed analysis and on-track commentary.
Summary of new terminology
OVERTAKE MODE
Function:
Available to drivers running within one second of the car ahead, Overtake Mode allows the deployment of additional power to initiate a pass. Replacing DRS, it supports wheel-to-wheel racing and can be used either in a single burst or strategically across a lap.
BOOST MODE
Function:
A driver-activated energy deployment function from the Energy Recovery System (ERS), usable in both offensive and defensive situations. Boost Mode delivers maximum combined engine and battery power at the press of a button, regardless of position on the track.
ACTIVE AERO
Function:
Adjustable front and rear wing elements that change angle dynamically in designated high-speed sections, switching between Corner and Straight modes. This allows strategic adaptability and ensures the car’s full power potential is translated into usable on-track performance through improved grip.
RECHARGE
Function:
Drivers can replenish battery energy through recovery under braking, throttle lift at the end of straights, and even through partial-throttle application in certain corners.
Pre-season testing will begin with a private session at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya from 26 January to 30 January. The second test will take place at the Bahrain International Circuit from 11 February to 13 February, followed by a third test at the same venue from 18 February to 20 February. The 2026 Formula 1 season then gets underway in Australia from 6 March to 8 March.
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