2026 brings the biggest rules reset Formula 1 has seen in a generation — new engines, active aerodynamics, smaller cars and two new manufacturers. Here's what changed and why it matters.
New-era power units
The 1.6-litre V6 turbo-hybrid stays, but the balance of power shifts to roughly 50% electric and 50% combustion. The battery's electrical output leaps from 120kW to 350kW (nearly triple), while the combustion engine is dialled back to around 400kW. The complex MGU-H — which harvested energy from exhaust heat — has been dropped to cut cost and complexity, and the energy-recovery system now recharges far more per lap under braking.
100% sustainable fuel
Every car runs on fully sustainable fuel — made from sources like carbon capture, municipal waste and non-food biomass — as part of Formula 1's push to be Net Zero Carbon by 2030.
Active aerodynamics (and no more DRS)
Moveable front and rear wings replace the old DRS. On the straights the wings flatten into a low-drag mode for higher top speed; through the corners they close again to restore downforce and grip.
Smaller, lighter, nimbler cars
The cars shrink: the wheelbase is cut by 200mm to 3.4m and the floor is 100mm narrower. Minimum weight drops by 30kg to 768kg — a rare reduction aimed at making the cars more agile.
A new way to overtake
With DRS gone, a new 'override' system gives a chasing driver within one second of the car ahead a burst of up to 350kW of extra electric power to help complete a move.
New manufacturers on the grid
The reset also brings fresh blood: Audi takes over the Sauber squad, and Cadillac joins as an eleventh team — see the full 2026 teams and drivers.
Read more
See how a Sprint weekend works, the points system, and the 2026 schedule with IST times.
Sources: Formula 1, Sky Sports.