The governing body of Formula 1, the FIA, has announced a series of rule changes aimed at addressing driver concerns regarding safety and competition. These tweaks, agreed upon by F1 stakeholders, including team principals and engine manufacturers, are set to be implemented at the upcoming Miami Grand Prix. Key adjustments include modifications to energy harvesting and deployment limits during qualifying, intended to enable drivers to push their vehicles closer to maximum speed.
Similar measures have been introduced for races, along with restrictions on power deployment in corners to enhance safety. The start procedure will also undergo changes, focusing on reducing hazards for cars that struggle to accelerate from the starting grid. Furthermore, regulations for wet weather conditions have been revised with an emphasis on improving safety. These changes follow the introduction of new power units and chassis, which have increased electrical power to achieve a 50-50 split with internal combustion engines.
The FIA has stated that these refinements were made in response to consultations with technical representatives and feedback from F1 drivers, using data gathered from the first three events of the 2026 season. The announcement comes after drivers, including four-time world champion Max Verstappen, expressed dissatisfaction with the new regulations, while others, such as seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, have praised the exciting wheel-to-wheel action.
The World Motor Sport Council is expected to give final approval for these changes ahead of the Miami Grand Prix, which will take place on May 1-3 and will be broadcast live on Sky Sports F1.