2026 Rules
Almost everything changed in F1 for 2026: smaller, lighter cars, new engines, moving wings and a new overtaking system that replaces DRS.
Last updated: October 1, 2026
Why such a big change?
F1 rewrites its rules from scratch every few years. The 2026 rules change the chassis and the engine at the same time — one of the most comprehensive overhauls in the sport's history.
The FIA's goals were more agile cars that can follow each other more closely, more efficient engines with a bigger electrical share, sustainable fuel and new manufacturers joining the sport.
With this set of regulations the FIA has sought to develop a new generation of cars that are fully in touch with the DNA of Formula 1 – cars that are light, supremely fast and agile but which also remains at the cutting edge of technology, and to achieve this we worked towards what we called a 'nimble car' concept.
| Item | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelbase (max) | 3600 mm | 3400 mm |
| Car width (max) | 2000 mm | 1900 mm |
| Minimum weight (incl. driver) | 800 kg | about 770 kg |
| Tyres | 18-inch | 18-inch; 25 mm narrower front, 30 mm narrower rear |
| Electric motor (MGU-K) | 120 kW | 350 kW |
| Exhaust energy (MGU-H) | yes | no |
| Fuel | E10 (10% sustainable) | 100% sustainable |
| Wings | fixed + DRS | active: Corner / Straight Mode |
| Overtaking aid | DRS | Overtake Mode |
Safety has been strengthened too
The safety structures were also updated for 2026: the roll hoop behind the driver’s head must withstand higher loads, the front impact structure now works in two stages, and side protection around the cockpit has been increased. The Halo, used since 2018, remains.
New teams and engine makers
There are 11 teams on the 2026 grid. Cadillac joined as the 11th team and uses Ferrari power units in its early years. Sauber has been replaced by the Audi works team, which builds its own power unit.
Power unit makers and the teams they supply:
- Mercedes: Mercedes, McLaren, Williams, Alpine
- Ferrari: Ferrari, Haas, Cadillac
- Red Bull Ford: Red Bull Racing, Racing Bulls
- Honda: Aston Martin
- Audi: Audi
Sources
The information in this section was checked against the sources below and written in our own words.
This guide is a plain-language summary written by SectorBeat and is not official. The FIA's published regulations always take precedence.