The FIA’s goals for 2026
During a Commission meeting in London, involving the FOM, the teams, and the FIA, the federation stated clear objectives for 2026. The reduction of dimensions and weight of the single-seaters was discussed. The FIA also requested teams to find safety systems for the drivers.
This Tuesday, a Commission brought together the International Automobile Federation, the Formula One group, and the Formula 1 teams in London. While the FIA approved a good number of proposals, these still need to be officially validated by the World Motor Sport Council before they come into effect. Several topics were discussed during this Commission, such as the issue of the six sprint races for the 2023 season. The FIA took advantage of this meeting in London to clearly set the key objectives of the future engine regulations coming in 2026.
The FIA wants to reduce the weight of the cars.
First, a reduction in drag is being considered in order to improve visibility on the track. This objective goes hand in hand with the improvement of overtaking between drivers initiated this season. Indeed, the 2022 cars were supposed to allow drivers to follow closely without causing a loss of grip for the following car, which seems to be working quite well so far.
Next, the FIA wants to reduce the dimensions and weight of the single-seaters. Weight is actually a key factor this season, considering that the majority of teams are overweight. In the case of Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez’s Red Bulls, they are still 10kg too heavy, which decreases their speed on the track. Some teams don’t hesitate to remove the paint from their single-seater to recover a few grams.
The economy and ecology discussed.
Regarding the economic aspect, the FIA has emphasized the standardization or simplification of the parts used in order to reduce costs. This is done in conjunction with the choice of durable or recyclable materials. The last element is the safety of the drivers. Formula 1 constantly develops cars to make them safer to drive. Teams must move towards more connected and active safety systems.
Among the other topics discussed, the cameras integrated into the drivers’ helmets will be mandatory from 2023. Tire management was also mentioned. In line with cost reduction and environmental commitments, the FIA wants to reduce the number of tire sets used. Two tests will be conducted in 2023, reducing this number from 13 to 11 over two weekends.
