Formula 1 and the FIA have finalized the regulatory package for the 2026 season. The 2026 rules affect car design, power units, aerodynamics, terminology, car liveries, and more. These rules apply to the 2026 Formula One World Championship and have been published through official Formula 1 and FIA channels as well as secondary reporting.
Car dimensions and mass have been revised. The 2026 cars will be shorter and narrower than their predecessors. The wheelbase has been reduced and overall mass has been lowered compared with previous regulations. A narrower tyre width is specified for both front and rear tyres while maintaining 18-inch wheel rims.
Aerodynamic regulations have been rewritten. Active aerodynamic systems are mandated for both front and rear wings. These movable wing elements have defined positions for cornering and low drag operation. The traditional drag reduction system is not featured in the new aerodynamic suite. Instead, terms such as “Overtake Mode” and “Active Aero” describe systems that adjust aerodynamic elements for overtaking and drag management.
The terminology update accompanying the 2026 rules replaces references to the drag reduction system with language that aligns with the new aerodynamic functions. “Overtake Mode” refers to an option to deploy stored energy and aerodynamic configuration aimed at supporting overtaking. “Boost” refers to a peak power output event combining electric and combustion power. “Recharge” refers to recovery of electrical energy during braking and partial throttle lift phases. These terms are part of the official regulatory glossary.
The power unit structure has been altered. New engine regulations maintain the 1.6-liter turbocharged internal combustion engine configuration but remove the MGU-H energy recovery element. Electric power recovery and deployment capacity has increased, reflected in a higher output for the MGU-K unit compared with previous regulations. Fuel flow limits are set by energy metrics rather than fuel mass.
Car liveries and driver number rules have been updated. A minimum of 55 percent of the car’s visible surface must be covered by paint or stickers to improve visual differentiation among cars. Drivers will be permitted to change their permanent race number during their careers under the revised regulations. These changes were approved by the FIA’s Formula One Commission.
The regulatory package, which includes technical, sporting, and governance elements, is tied to the Concorde Agreement signed by Formula 1, the FIA, and all 11 teams. This agreement defines the framework for competition and regulatory stability through the 2026 season and beyond.
The changes cover a wide array of systems without specifying competitive outcomes. Technical documentation and official FIA publications list detailed rule text and definitions for these 2026 regulations.
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