Several Formula 1 teams are voicing concerns over the strict weight limits set to be introduced in 2026. Under the new regulations, the racing cars must meet a number of stringent requirements. For instance, the minimum weight of a Formula 1 car from 2026 is set at 768 kilograms, 32 kilograms less than the current limit. Given that electrified powertrains are becoming heavier, it promises to be an ‘enormous challenge’ to keep the car as light as possible.
On paper, it seems logical that Formula 1 cars will be much lighter in 2026. The new regulations for the chassis, after all, stipulate that the vehicles must be significantly smaller. The maximum wheelbase will be shortened by twenty centimeters, and the width of the cars will be reduced to one hundred and ninety centimeters. Moreover, tire supplier Pirelli will introduce narrower tires to further limit the weight.
However, beneath the surface, the cars are actually at risk of becoming heavier. From 2026, the power of a Formula 1 car will be evenly distributed between an internal combustion engine and a battery. This, of course, requires more and heavier batteries. Weight may play a crucial role in competitiveness in the future. Forget engine power or tire temperatures – the question will soon be who can design the lightest car.
A ‘Significant Challenge’
“A number has simply been plucked out of thin air for the car’s weight,” a critical Christian Horner explained during the race weekend in Miami. “We have engines that are significantly heavier, and a car that needs to be lighter, so it will be a huge challenge for every team to meet the weight limit. Moreover, weight reduction costs a lot of money. Teams will have to make choices, because ultimately, less ballast simply means faster lap times. That said, it will be a significant challenge.”
Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff also indicated that it would be difficult to meet the limit, although he did support the FIA’s decision to reduce the weight of a Formula 1 car. “As Christian (Horner) already said, as a team, you have to make choices,” said Wolff. “How much lap time do you attribute to weight and ballast? Where do you want to save? You can jeopardize other performance components if you want to save weight – or vice versa. It’s a challenge. Ultimately, we want to make the cars more agile with this. Was that important? I think so. We have to start somewhere. That first step will undoubtedly be difficult, but that applies to everyone.”
