Formula 1: 2026 Technical Regulations

The International Automobile Federation has presented the new technical regulations that will define Formula 1 starting in 2026. These regulations focus on improving competition, safety, and sustainability.

Main Innovations

• "Agile Car" Concept: Cars will be 30 kg lighter, improving efficiency and maneuverability.
• Redesigned Power Unit: With almost 300% more battery power and a balance between internal combustion and electric power.
• Active Aerodynamics: To better manage the energy of the new power units.
• Manual Overload Mode: Increases overtaking opportunities by allowing greater deployment of electric energy.
• Sustainability: Cars will use 100% sustainable fuel.

Manufacturer Participation

A record six power unit manufacturers will be present in 2026, including Ferrari, Mercedes, Alpine, Honda, Audi, and Red Bull Ford Powertrains.

Improved Safety

The new regulations include stronger structures and more rigorous testing to improve driver safety.

Outlook and Collaboration

The regulations have been developed in consultation with Formula 1's Technical Working Groups and in collaboration with teams, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and power unit manufacturers. These were revealed in Montreal before the 2024 Canadian Grand Prix and are expected to be ratified by the World Motor Sport Council on June 28.

Comments from Leaders

Mohamed Ben Sulayem, president of the FIA, highlighted the collaboration with Formula 1 and its partners to define the future of the category. Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1, noted the importance of these regulations for the future of the sport and the global automotive industry. Nikolas Tombazis, FIA Single-Seater Technical Director, emphasized the design of lighter, more powerful cars focused on driver skill.

Key Features

Power Unit

• 2026 Regulation: Published in 2022, it includes a significant improvement over current units.
• Increase in Electric Power: Battery power is increased by almost 300%, from 120 kW to 350 kW. Although the internal combustion engine power is reduced, overall performance is maintained thanks to the increase in electric energy.
• Sustainability: The power units will be the most advanced to date and will run on 100% sustainable fuels.
• Energy Recovery: Doubling of recoverable energy during braking, with a total of 8.5 MJ per lap.
• Manual Overload Mode: New mode allowing additional electric energy deployment to facilitate overtaking.

Chassis

• Weight and Size Reduction: Cars will be smaller and lighter, with a minimum weight of 768 kg, including 722 kg for the car and driver, and 46 kg for the tires.
• Dimensions: The wheelbase will be reduced to 3400 mm and the width to 1900 mm. The maximum width of the floor will also be reduced.
• Aerodynamics: 30% reduction in aerodynamic load and 55% in drag. The 18-inch wheels remain, but with a reduction in the width of the front and rear tires.

Aerodynamics

• Active Aerodynamics System: Use of movable wings to optimize speed on straights and curves.
• Design Changes: Elimination of front wheel arches and simplification of body elements to improve airflow performance.
• New Aerodynamic Elements: Includes a three-element active rear wing and a narrower front wing with a two-element active flap.

Safety

• Improved Frontal Impact: Introduction of a two-stage structure to prevent breaks near the survival cell.
• Lateral Protection: Increased protection against lateral intrusions around the cockpit and fuel tank.
• Roll Hoops: Increased test loads and load capacity, from 16G to 20G.
• Safety Lights: Improved visibility of rear endplate lights and new side lights to identify the ERS status.
• GPS Antenna: Relocation to improve sensitivity and allow for future developments in active safety.

Sustainability

• Sustainable Fuel: Cars will use a sustainable fuel that can be used in any internal combustion vehicle.
• Use of Electric Energy: Increased use of electric energy in the 2026 power units.
• Carbon Neutrality Goal: Partnership with the FIA's goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030.

The new regulations aim to attract new manufacturers and ensure more exciting and sustainable competition, aligning Formula 1 with current trends in technology and environmental responsibility.