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The latest F1 Commission meeting has seen a selection of updates given on cost cap restrictions, including ‘team entertainment’ remaining excluded from the budgetary restrictions alongside parental and sick leave.
Additionally, the FIA has unanimously decided to maintain the current Formula 1 points system until the end of the year. Earlier, there were discussions about the possibility of extending the points distribution beyond the 10th position, but this option has been ruled out.
F1 Commission reveals latest changes from the FIA
Earlier this year, Christian Horner, the team principal of Red Bull, expressed his concerns about the cost cap not adversely affecting employees. He emphasized that the cap should not force the team to choose between organizing a morale-boosting staff party or investing in the development of new parts. Therefore, the recent confirmation that ‘team entertainment’ is exempt from the cap should address this concern and provide clarity on the matter.
“I’m not saying that our technical director doesn’t like Christmas parties, but he likes front wings!” He explained back in May when discussing the issue.
Finding a balance where employees are not unfairly burdened is important. Overall, the discussion has been productive and sensible.
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The challenge lies in striking the right equilibrium between what should be left out and what should be incorporated in that larger figure.
In light of the upcoming technical and sporting regulations in 2026, the F1 Commission has announced that the 2026 season will feature nine test days divided into three separate pre-season tests. These tests will allow teams to adequately prepare their cars for the exciting new era of Formula 1.
An additional update regarding the 2026 regulations has been slated for October 17, during its presentation to the World Motor Sport Council. Furthermore, a special F1 Commission meeting has been arranged for October 2 to deliberate on matters pertaining to the 2026 season.
Lastly, there will be a further increase to the minimum weight of the car and driver to 800kg for the 2025 season – a 2kg increase on the current state of the cars, but this increase is said to have been made with “the interests of driver well-being” in mind. As such, the minimum weight for the drivers has gone up from 80kg to 82kg – with drivers weighing less than that often having ballast attached to their car to make up the shortfall.
Read next: Mercedes F1 2025 driver search takes fresh twist after big Kimi Antonelli admission
