Formula 1 has long aimed to be a benchmark in motorsport — and well beyond. It’s no coincidence that the pinnacle chases innovation and cutting‑edge technology without losing sight of the racing spectacle. With that in mind, the regulations for 2026 — following the 75th anniversary — have been completely overhauled. During recent test days the new aerodynamics, power units and overtaking modes were already trialled on track. With the first official Grand Prix weekend looming, we set out the most important changes one more time.
It has been clear for some time that the rulebook in Formula 1 is being rewritten. Such a drastic change doesn’t happen overnight; the new F1 cars herald a completely new era. The promise of advanced technology was intended to make the sport attractive to new manufacturers. With the arrival of Audi and Cadillac — two heavyweights from the international auto industry — that goal appears to have been met. What exactly will these newcomers, and the established teams, face in 2026?
Smaller package
At first glance the 2026 cars are noticeably more compact. At many teams’ request the chassis has been made both narrower and shorter. The wheelbase has been reduced as well, which should sharpen steering response. Cars will still run 18‑inch Pirelli tyres, but both front and rear tyres are significantly narrower. That smaller contact patch naturally results in lighter cars. All of these adjustments are aimed at cutting weight and improving agility — sore points over the past seasons.
Aerodynamics
A lot is changing on the aero side as well. The traditional DRS button has been replaced by active aerodynamics, with adjustable elements on the front and rear wings. That allows teams to make strategic tweaks and maximise performance across different sections of the circuit. Teams also get more freedom to experiment with a wider range of solutions. During the test days we already saw several aerodynamic packages, including Ferrari’s 180-degree rotating spoiler flap.
Aero work is being overhauled in less visible areas too. The previous regulatory era was known as the ground-effect era: cars built around floor-generated downforce. Large Venturi tunnels under the chassis produced the negative pressure. In 2026 the cars return to a flat floor, giving teams more latitude in setup and ride height depending on the driver’s preference.
Power unit formula
The new power unit was a recurring talking point during the recent test weeks. Output is now split evenly between the familiar V6 turbo engine and a stronger electric component. That deeper electrification places more responsibility on the drivers. During the race they must constantly make choices about energy use, regeneration and saving, which should add an extra strategic layer to on-track duels.
It is precisely that addition that drew criticism over the past weeks. Max Verstappen called the new rules “Formula E on steroids” and even “unworthy of Formula 1.” To keep the battery level topped up, drivers sometimes have to lift off or downshift during a race — hardly ideal in a sport where full throttle is the benchmark. The changes are noticeable at the start as well. The hybrid system has been simplified by the removal of the costly MGU‑H, the energy-recovery unit that also warmed the turbos during the start procedure. In 2026 drivers will have to spin their engines up themselves before they can get the best possible launch.
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New modes
Finally, there are the new overtaking modes made possible by the revised power unit. As noted, DRS is being removed. In its place, drivers can deploy extra battery power to get past rivals. Below we lay out the different modes:
| Overtake – When a driver is within one second of the car ahead, additional power can be deployed to execute a pass. This mode replaces DRS and adds a fresh strategic layer. Each circuit has one detection point; after that the driver can use the available energy in a single burst or spread it over a full lap. |
| Boost – Drivers can activate this mode at any time. Through the Energy Recovery System (ERS) the hybrid system stores energy that can be released with a single button press. At that moment the engine, working with the battery, delivers maximum power regardless of the car’s position on the track. The mode can be used both offensively and defensively. |
| Recharge – With this button drivers can charge their battery by harvesting energy — for example during braking, by lifting off on the straights, or in slow corners where only part of the available power is required. |
See the 2026 F1 calendar
