F1 2026 – After a long wait the FIA has finally decided on F1 technical regulations which was also ratified by World Motor Sport Council. The 2026 cars will undergo a metamorphosis resulting from the rejection of some principles that did not work in the "Next Gen" three-year period.
The ground effect, the expedient that was intended to create vehicles less sensitive to dirty air, it was shelved simplifying the design of the floors and reducing the reach of the extractor, which should allow cars to break down some of the effect spray which occurs in wet conditions.
Generally speaking, the key point on which the new generation of single-seaters will be based is agility. The cars will aim to improve the "race" attitude. The goal is to allow pilots to engage in closer dogfights.
A clear sign that the current generation had not achieved the objectives set in the resolution. Now we intend to overcome this type of defect once and for all.
From this perspective, the cars will be made lighter. The weight will drop by 30 kg compared to current generation Formula 1 cars. This will also help improve overall handling as well as efficiency.
In this sense the role of power units that will be completely redesigned. The power unit they will count on an increase of 300% in power provided by the battery. The hybrid turbo scheme will remain without the help of the MGU-H which will be banned.
The aerodynamics will have to match the new propulsion units and will have to allow smoother overtaking maneuvers. The pilots will be able to count on aOverride mode” with which to have a greater deployment of power in some phases of the race.
The Formula One of the future will be hyper-competitive in the intentions of the legislator. The manufacturers responded with enthusiasm given that there will be six engine manufacturers on call, a small record for the series: Ferrari, Mercedes, Alpine, Honda, Audi and Red Bull Ford Powertrains.
The drive units will be powered as early as 2026 with sustainable 100% fuel. This is a real challenge that must meet the requirements imposed by the program Net Zero Carbon which Formula One has firmly embraced. Motorists consider eco-sustainable petrol to be a great possibility to allow the propulsion of the future not to go to the wayside. full electric. That's why the response was so large.
Clearly, a reference to safety could not be missing, an aspect that the FIA considers vital. Greater safety thanks to more robust structures and even more stringent tests.
Provisions, those presented summarily in the previous lines, agreed by all parties involved: FIA, the 10 teams, the FOM and the manufacturers of power unit.
F1 2026: the 5 pillars on which the new cars will be based:
- Power units revisited;
- Lighter and smaller frames;
- Active aerodynamics;
- Increased security;
- Sustainability.
F1 2026: here is the complete PDF of the technical rules:
Technical rules 2026: click to download
Crediti foto: FIA