The FIA has revealed its plans for the 2026 Formula 1 regulations, focusing on creating cars “lighter, more powerful, and more focused on the skills of the driver”. These regulations include a series of significant innovations and philosophical changes compared to the current F1 cars.
While the guidelines for the power unit were released two years ago, the chassis side of the regulations remained a mystery until now. The FIA’s plan for 2026 aims to provide more sustainable cars, improve racing, and reduce the dimensions of the chassis to enhance the overall racing experience.
A major change in the updated cars is the introduction of Active Aero. The new cars will have movable front and rear wings that can switch between high and low aerodynamic pressure, depending on the demands of the track. This will replace the current DRS system.
Nikolas Tombazis, FIA’s single-seater technical director, explained that the regulatory body wants to shift the focus of the sport to the driver’s skills rather than car development. The regulations were designed to promote closer racing among drivers, increase competition between teams, and improve the overall spectacle of Formula 1.
The FIA’s goal is to create a more sustainable future for the sport. The regulations include a larger electric component in the power unit, globally more efficient cars, and the use of entirely sustainable fuels. Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali believes that these changes will result in more intense and exciting races for fans.
Domenicali also highlighted the potential of the new hybrid power unit with sustainable fuel to benefit the global automotive industry. The reduction in fuel consumption has the potential to be adopted by cars worldwide, leading to a significant decrease in emissions. This potential is one of the reasons why there will be a record number of engine suppliers in Formula 1 in 2026.
FIA President, Mohamed Ben Sulayem, emphasized that future regulations will make Formula 1 even more attractive to power unit manufacturers. With Ford and Audi entering the sport in 2026, Power Unit Regulations have already attracted a record number of manufacturers. The combination of advanced sustainability technology, innovative aerodynamic solutions, and enhanced safety features make the 2026 F1 Regulations a significant step for the elite category of the sport.
