Formula 1 Set to Discuss Regulation Changes for 2026 Season

The Formula 1 season may be on a temporary hiatus, but a series of crucial meetings are scheduled to take place, starting on Thursday, to discuss potential changes to the 2026 regulations. The recent cancellation of races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia has created a five-week gap in the calendar, giving the sport's governing body time to reflect on and adjust the new regulations. While the introduction of new power units and chassis has been a success, with drivers like Lewis Hamilton enjoying the racing more than ever, there have been some imperfections that need to be addressed. The main issue is the energy-management requirements during qualifying and racing, which have led to criticism from drivers and a dangerous crash for Oliver Bearman in Suzuka. Max Verstappen has been vocal about the situation, threatening to quit the sport if the regulations aren't altered. The drivers are largely united in wanting to change the energy-management system to avoid potential dangers. One possible solution is to increase the power allowed when 'super clipping,' which would force drivers to lift and coast less. However, this may not completely solve the problem. The challenge of battery management has also affected qualifying, with drivers struggling to push to the limit without throwing the car off optimal energy deployment. The FIA has already agreed to reduce the permitted energy recharge each lap in qualifying, but further changes may be needed. A series of meetings will take place over the next few weeks, with the first meeting being an ideas session, followed by a full-scale meeting later in April. Any changes decided upon will likely be introduced from the next race in Miami. Formula 1 returns on May 1-3 with the Miami Grand Prix, live on Sky Sports F1.