After much anticipation, the FIA has finally unveiled the new regulations for 2026. On Thursday, the organization revealed the next generation of Formula 1 cars. The vehicles will be smaller, lighter, and will produce less downforce. With more action on the track as the goal, these ‘agile’ cars should be able to follow and overtake each other more effectively.
At first glance, the cars have primarily changed in the wings – the front wing will take on a completely new shape, while the rear spoiler returns to the familiar, flat design. Compared to the current regulations, the cars will mainly become much smaller. The vehicles will lose a few centimeters in all dimensions, of course without limiting safety.
With the smaller size, the FIA hopes that the cars will become much more ‘agile’. In recent years, overtaking has not always been easy, especially on narrow street circuits. By 2026, this problem should be resolved. In addition to the size, the cars will also be 30 kilograms lighter than their predecessors.
Elimination of DRS
In addition to the size of the cars, special systems are also being introduced to enhance the quality of racing. To curb the ‘dirty air’ currently created by the cars, Formula 1 is opting for active aerodynamics. Various moving elements in the rear wing are designed to make it easier to follow each other on the track. In conjunction with this new spoiler, an active front wing will also be introduced to balance the aerodynamics for the driver. With these new systems, Formula 1 is saying goodbye to DRS.
To make overtaking a little easier, drivers will receive assistance from a special electric boost. Each car will have access to a Manual Override Mode, which gives the engine an extra bit of power from the hybrid system.
Increased Electric Propulsion
The 2026 regulations regarding the powertrain have been known for some time – each car will again be equipped with a hybrid V6 engine. However, the power of the battery will significantly increase. With 300% more power from the electric power source, the capacity of the battery is brought in line with the power of the internal combustion engine.
