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Formula 1 has unveiled the simplified language that will be used to reference the intricate details of its upcoming 2026 technical rules.

The sport is introducing what is considered the biggest rules overhaul in its competitive history next season, featuring revised car and engine specifications and the compulsory introduction of 100% sustainable fuels.

The updated 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrids, which retain the 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrid, boast a substantially higher battery power, driving major innovations in the aero packages.

During grand prix events, pilots will tactically deploy battery power – sometimes even qualifying laps – to achieve the best result.

Extensive fan consultation were conducted with a diverse audience, including long-time followers and newcomers, to identify which terms would aid comprehension of the main elements of the 2026 changes.

The primary aim was to make a range of advanced technical aspects of the sport as straightforward as possible for the widest audience.

Consequently, older technical labels for certain devices – such as "x-mode and z-mode" for the active aerodynamics – have been phased out in preference for straightforward terms that succinctly convey the real-world effect of the system.

Key Technical Innovations

The FIA states that drivers will have greater control to choose strategies regarding power usage, regeneration, and efficiency.

The new regulations feature a series of modes that will be clearly indicated on broadcast screens to improve the audience's understanding of the strategic duel.

• Passing Mode: This supersedes the existing Drag Reduction System. It provides a short boost of battery power accessible when a competitor is close behind the vehicle in front to facilitate an pass.
• Extra Push Mode: This is a driver-operated power boost from the energy recovery system that can be used in offensive or defensive moves. It delivers the pilot maximum power at the click of a switch.

Both of these crucial modes will have to be managed carefully, as the overall battery capacity is restricted.

• Active Aerodynamics: Both the front and rear wings adjust their angles – opening on the high-speed sections for reduced drag and top speed, and angling down in the bends for optimal cornering performance.
• Recharge: Cars can recharge the energy store with energy harvested under braking, or during coasting at the conclusion of a straight or in sections where only partial power is required.

2026 Car Specifications

The 2026 cars will be reduced in size and weight compared to the 2025 spec, with a distance between axles reduced by 200mm to 3,400mm, car width reduced by 100mm – down to 1,900mm – and the lowest permissible weight reduced by 30kg.

Cumulative downforce is anticipated to be reduced by approximately 15-30%, although squads will inevitably claw this back as they optimize their packages.

Air resistance has been slashed by 40%. The vehicles will utilize moveable wing elements – both wings will adjust on the straight sections to improve speed and enhance velocity and revert into place for peak handling.

Wheels will retain the current rim size, but the actual tyres will be slimmer, by 25 millimetres on the front axle and 30mm at the rear.

What's Changing in the Engines?

The new power units will have an approximate 50-50 split in energy output by the ICE and the electrical system, increasing from about 20% electrical in the current formula.

The energy recovery system is made less complex through the deletion of the complex turbo energy recovery device, the complicated and costly device that generated electricity from the turbocharger.

Every car on the grid will be obliged to compete on carbon-neutral fuel, produced using organic sources or synthetic industrial processes.