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The FIA has introduced key rule tweaks ahead of the Miami GP to address safety and energy concerns, following drivers’ push-back against the sport’s new hybrid-era challenges.
Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli at the Japanese Grand Prix (AP)
Well, it’s official — F1 is tweaking its controversial new-era rulebook, rather than tearing it up.
Ahead of the Miami Grand Prix on May 3, the FIA have released on a set of targeted adjustments to its 2026 regulations, following mounting criticism from drivers and teams over the sport’s new hybrid-heavy cars.
Why Were Changes Needed?
F1’s newly-proposed 2026 regulations introduced a major shift: engines now operate on a near 50/50 split between combustion and electric power.
That change has pushed energy management to the forefront, forcing drivers into heavy lift-and-coast driving and creating uneven performance across laps.
Drivers have been vocal about the issues, raising both racing and safety concerns — particularly around sudden speed differences between cars with varying battery levels.
A recent crash at the Japanese GP involving Oliver Bearman in Japan only added urgency to the discussions.
Following meetings between teams, drivers, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali and the FIA, a compromise was reached: tweak the system, don’t overhaul it.
Energy Management Tweaks
Most of the changes focus on how energy is deployed.
- In qualifying, the super-clipping limit increases from 250 kW to 350 kW, allowing drivers to maintain full throttle for longer.
- At the same time, energy harvesting is reduced slightly — from 8 MJ to 7 MJ — making laps more demanding.
In races, power deployment is now more controlled.
- Drivers can use the full 350 kW boost in acceleration zones, but elsewhere will be capped at 250 kW. Straight-line zones will still allow maximum deployment.
“These measures are designed to reduce excessive closing speeds while maintaining overtaking opportunities and overall performance characteristics,” the FIA said.
Safety Takes Priority
A major addition is the “low-power start detection system,” which identifies cars with poor launches and abnormally low acceleration.
The plan is to have the MGU-K automatically deploy extra energy — which is not normally allowed at starts below certain speeds — to avoid dangerous slow starts.
Visual warning systems, such as flashing lights, will also be introduced to improve driver awareness during races.
The FIA has also tightened rules to prevent cars arriving on the grid with low battery levels.
Wet Weather Adjustments
F1 has also made changes for wet conditions.
- Tyre blanket temperatures for intermediate tyres will be increased to improve grip, while rear light systems will be simplified for better visibility.
- Electrical deployment limits will also be reduced in the wet to improve control, though exact figures are yet to be confirmed.
What Happens Next
All changes will come into effect in Miami, with further evaluation planned after the race weekend.
April 21, 2026, 09:09 IST
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