Formula 1 2026: Changes to Technical, Sporting and Financial Regulations

The FIA World Motor Sport Council has announced changes that will impact Formula 1 starting from the 2026 season. These regulations affect technical, sporting, and financial areas, aiming to ensure a more balanced development in the championship. Below, we present the most relevant changes.

Technical Changes: Aerodynamic Adjustments and New Engines

The 2026 technical regulations will undergo a restructuring to make the rules more understandable for teams.

• Aerodynamic improvements: Modifications to the regulation of airflow will optimize performance and facilitate closer racing. Cars will be able to race more competitively without losing efficiency when they are close to each other.
• Adjustable aerodynamic modes: There will be two main modes. The straight-line mode will reduce the car's drag on straights, while the cornering mode will increase aerodynamic downforce, improving performance in technical areas of the circuit.
• New hybrid engines: The 2026 cars will feature a new generation of hybrid engines. This will lead to more efficient energy management and allow teams to better balance the use of adjustable aerodynamics during the race.
• Three pre-season tests: Three sessions of pre-season testing, each lasting three days, have been approved. These tests will be essential for teams to adjust their cars to the new technical standards.

Sporting Changes: Removal of the Extra Point and Development of Young Drivers

The 2026 sporting regulations will have a direct impact on team strategies.

• Removal of the extra point for fastest lap: No additional point will be awarded for the fastest lap. This adjustment will significantly impact race planning, as it removes an incentive that often influenced tire management and race pace.
• Increased participation of young drivers: Teams will be required to have their young drivers participate in two free practice sessions throughout the season, instead of just one as previously required.

Financial Changes: Budget Cap and Control

The new financial regulations aim to maintain proper cost control and ensure the economic stability of the teams.

• Adjusted budget cap: The budget cap will remain at levels similar to the current ones, with necessary adjustments to account for factors such as inflation. This will allow teams to operate efficiently without affecting their developments.
• Simplification of financial regulations: Financial rules have been simplified to make them more accessible and clear. Additionally, control mechanisms will be strengthened to ensure compliance with the established limits.

Expectations for the 2026 Season

With these changes, the FIA has introduced a set of rules that will require teams to adapt to a more controlled environment, both technically and financially. As the 2026 season approaches, teams are expected to adjust their strategies to maximize their performance under these new regulations.