The unveiling of the F1 2026 regulations showcases the FIA’s vision for the future appearance of Formula 1 cars.
The FIA has officially unveiled the highly-anticipated F1 2026 regulations, with the Formula 1 cars of the future now given their set parameters to work under.
At the beginning of the F1 2026 season, significant alterations are in store for the cars, as both the chassis and power unit regulations are set to undergo simultaneous modifications.
FIA officially launch F1 2026 regulations
There has been a lot of discussion about the move towards greater sustainability through new regulations. The power units are expected to triple the current electrical energy generation, resulting in an equal division between electric and internal combustion power.
In 2026, Audi will be taking over the Sauber team completely, attracting new manufacturers to join the grid. Aston Martin, on the other hand, will become factory partners with Honda after their current collaboration with Red Bull comes to an end. Additionally, Aston Martin will collaborate with Ford to develop their own power units.
A staggering number of six power unit manufacturers, namely Honda, Red Bull Ford Powertrains, Ferrari, Mercedes, Renault, and Audi, are set to compete in F1 2026.
The FIA single seater director, Nikolas Tombazis, disclosed that the concept of “raceability” implemented in F1 2022 will persist in F1 2026. This initiative aims to enable drivers to race in close proximity to one another.
What do we already know about the F1 2026 cars and regulations?
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One of the main findings is that the cars have become lighter, shorter, and narrower compared to before. The current minimum weight has been reduced by 30 kilograms, bringing it down to 768kg.
Additionally, the cars will undergo a reduction in size. The wheelbase will be shortened by 200mm, going from 3600mm to 3400mm, and the width will be decreased by 100mm, from 2000mm to 1900mm. These adjustments aim to create a more agile car, as per the FIA’s objective.
The concept of active aerodynamics was also considered, and it will indeed be implemented. The role of DRS as a tool for overtaking will no longer exist, as confirmed by the FIA. Instead, the movable rear wing will automatically open on straight sections of the track, aiming to minimize drag whenever possible. This will involve incorporating additional moving components in the rear wing.
Furthermore, a novel inclusion will be the integration of dynamic front wings, equipped with mobile components akin to the Drag Reduction System (DRS), tailored to meet the energy requirements of the advanced power units. These power units will be fueled entirely by sustainable sources.
Cars will now have a brand-new feature called ‘Manual Override Mode’, which will provide drivers with increased electrical power when they are trailing another vehicle. This enhancement is designed to enhance their ability to overtake other cars.
The process has consistently prioritized safety, as evidenced by the FIA’s assurance of stricter safety tests for the F1 2026 cars and the implementation of reinforced structures on these vehicles.
Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the FIA president, announced that the FIA is shaping an incredibly thrilling future for the highest level of motorsport. They have introduced an extensive set of regulations for the 2026 FIA Formula One World Championship and beyond.
Two years ago, after the release of the 2026 Power Unit Regulations, we seized the chance to redefine the chassis regulations in alignment with the energy needs of the new power units.
By working together with our partners at Formula 1 and with the support of the sport’s 10 teams and all our stakeholders, we have achieved a distinctive revision that guarantees our premier championship is even more aligned with current world events.
The implementation of the Power Unit Regulations has already attracted a remarkable influx of PU manufacturers to the sport. Additionally, in conjunction with the chassis regulations, which facilitate the production of lighter and more agile cars incorporating inventive aerodynamic solutions, we have developed a comprehensive set of regulations. These regulations are not only aimed at enhancing racing, but also at rendering the championship even more appealing to PU manufacturers, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), and current participants.
“The 2026 F1 Regulations highlight advanced sustainability technology and enhanced safety as their primary features. Our collaborative effort with Formula 1 was driven by the objective of creating a vehicle that aligns with the future requirements of this esteemed sport category. We firmly believe that we have successfully accomplished this objective.”
“These regulations signify a pivotal milestone in the future of our sport, as we eagerly anticipate a new era of car and power unit that will provide our fans with thrilling and more competitive racing.” – Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali
The advent of the new hybrid power unit, fueled by sustainable sources, offers a significant opportunity for the worldwide automotive sector. The decrease in fuel consumption has the potential to be harnessed by vehicles globally, leading to a substantial reduction in emissions.
The potential it holds is one of the main factors contributing to the anticipated increase in the number of engine suppliers in Formula 1 by 2026, setting a new record.
As we embark on this fresh regulatory cycle, the sport finds itself in its most robust state to date. I firmly believe that the efforts invested by the FIA in shaping these regulations will only serve to reinforce the sport’s global standing.
The FIA’s single-seater technical director, Nikolas Tombazis, stated that the new regulations aim to create a new breed of Formula 1 cars that embody the essence of the sport. These cars will be lightweight, incredibly fast, and agile, while also incorporating the latest advancements in technology. The FIA referred to this vision as the “nimble car” concept and worked towards achieving it.
The core of this vision revolves around a revamped power unit that achieves a better balance between power generated from the internal combustion element and electrical power.
“We have successfully reduced the size and weight of the car on the chassis side by 30kg, leading to a significantly more dynamic vehicle.”
Furthermore, we are unveiling two thrilling enhancements to elevate the racing experience. One entails active aerodynamics that enable exceptionally minimal drag on straightaways, while the other involves the Manual Override system. This cutting-edge technology empowers drivers to access an immediate surge of battery power whenever they are in proximity to the vehicle ahead.
The 2026 FIA Formula 1 Technical Regulations have been carefully crafted to enhance the racing experience, prioritizing driver skill, and promoting closer competition among teams. These regulations aim to create a lighter, more powerful, and captivating spectacle for fans and enthusiasts alike.
Furthermore, we have chosen to enhance the electrical component of the power unit, improve the overall efficiency of the car, and exclusively utilize fully sustainable fuels, all in pursuit of a more sustainable future for our sport.
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