A new revolution in Formula 1, again? Absolutely! In 2026, Formula 1 awaits one of the most significant technological transformations in decades. The cars will become lighter, more aerodynamic, and more powerful, while the engines will undergo radical changes: more electric power, the phasing out of the MGU-H, and the transition to fully sustainable fuels.
The impact will be enormous. But this won’t be the first time Formula 1 has reinvented itself. Time and again, the sport has made technological leaps, often in giant strides. We’ll take you through the six most significant leaps that were necessary to get us here — and to make the next one.
1. The very first F1 race: Silverstone 1950
On May 13, 1950, the very first official Formula 1 Grand Prix was held at Silverstone. The cars were simple and devoid of any form of aerodynamics. The Alfa Romeo 158, the dominant car at the time, had an engine in the front and produced about 350 hp – a stark contrast to the complex machines of today.
Why is this a milestone?
This was the starting shot and the foundation for Formula 1 as the premier class of motor racing.
2. The aerodynamics revolution (1960s – 1970s)
In the 1960s and 70s, wings and spoilers forever changed Formula 1. Teams discovered that they could generate extra downforce with aerodynamic components, allowing cars to go faster through corners without losing grip. The Lotus 79 from 1978 perfected the ‘ground effect’ concept, making the car seem as if it was being sucked to the asphalt.
Why is this a milestone?
From that moment on, aerodynamics became the most important performance factor in Formula 1.
3. The Turbo Revolution (1977 – 1988)
In 1977, Renault introduced the first turbo engine in Formula 1. Although the technology was unreliable at first, turbo engines grew into a revolutionary power source. In the 1980s, these engines reached unprecedented power outputs of up to 1500 horsepower during qualifications, resulting in the fastest F1 cars ever.
Why is this a milestone?
The turbo engines forever changed Formula 1 until the FIA banned them in the late ’80s due to extreme speeds, safety risks, and high costs.
4. The Electronics Revolution (1990s)
In the 1990s, advanced systems such as traction control, active suspension, and semi-automatic gearboxes made Formula 1 cars smarter than ever. The Williams FW14B from 1992 was the ultimate example of this, dominating the season thanks to its technological superiority.
Why is this a milestone?
Electronics drastically changed the sport until the FIA banned many systems to make the races more dependent on the driver.
5. The Turbo-Hybrid Revolution (2014 – present)
In 2014, Formula 1 introduced the V6 turbo-hybrid engines, equipped with the Energy Recovery System (ERS). These power sources were not only powerful but also extremely efficient. Mercedes had the most advanced drivetrain and dominated the hybrid era, resulting in eight constructor titles in a row and seven world titles for drivers such as Lewis Hamilton.
Why is this a milestone?
These hybrid engines were the most fuel-efficient in F1 history and defined an era of unprecedented dominance, while laying the groundwork for the next generation of power sources in 2026.
