Formula 1 stakeholders met on Monday to review potential adjustments to the 2026 regulations following the opening three races of the season.
FIA confirms mid-season F1 2026 rule changes
While the new rules have delivered exciting on-track action, they have also drawn criticism from some quarters for feeling overly artificial. Concerns have been amplified after Oliver Bearman’s accident at the Japanese Grand Prix last month, which raised fresh questions about the safety implications of the current regulations.
Discussions over potential tweaks were informed by data gathered from the opening three races of the 2026 season, with all stakeholders working closely alongside the FIA, teams, power unit manufacturers, and Formula One Management.
The agreed changes—set to be introduced from the Miami Grand Prix (May 3), pending approval—aim to improve performance, safety, and consistency across the grid. Race start measures will first be tested in Miami before full adoption.
Qualifying – promoting performance
Energy management rules have been refined to reduce excessive harvesting and encourage more flat-out driving. The maximum recharge has been lowered from 8MJ to 7MJ, shortening “superclip” usage to around 2–4 seconds per lap.
At the same time, peak superclip power has been increased from 250 kW to 350 kW, reducing the time drivers spend managing energy and allowing for more consistent performance. This higher output will also apply during races.
Additionally, the number of races using alternative lower energy limits has been expanded from eight to 12, giving teams more flexibility depending on circuit characteristics.
Race – improved safety and consistency
To limit sudden performance spikes, boost power in race conditions will now be capped at +150 kW (or the car’s current output if higher at activation).
The MGU-K will still deliver up to 350 kW in key acceleration zones—such as corner exits and overtaking areas—but will be restricted to 250 kW elsewhere.
These adjustments are designed to reduce dangerous closing speeds while preserving overtaking opportunities.
Race starts – enhanced safety
A new “low power start detection” system will identify cars with unusually slow acceleration after clutch release. If triggered, the system will automatically deploy the MGU-K to ensure a minimum level of acceleration without giving any competitive advantage.
Cars affected will also activate flashing rear and side lights to warn drivers behind. In addition, the energy counter will reset at the start of the formation lap to fix a previously identified inconsistency.
Wet conditions – better control and visibility
Following driver feedback, tyre blanket temperatures for intermediate tyres have been increased to improve grip in wet conditions.
Maximum ERS deployment will be reduced to limit torque and enhance control on slippery surfaces. Meanwhile, rear light systems have been simplified to provide clearer visual signals, improving visibility and reaction times in poor weather.
The proposals will now be submitted for approval via an FIA World Motor Sport Council e-vote ahead of Miami.
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem praised the rapid and collaborative effort behind the updates, emphasizing that driver input played a central role. He stressed that safety and sporting fairness remain the top priorities, with the changes designed to address early-season concerns while maintaining the integrity and excitement of the championship.