FIA announces 2026 Formula 1 cars to be 80 kg lighter and more compact

The FIA has unveiled its 2026 Formula 1 technical regulations, emphasizing a “nimble car” concept. The new rules shorten the wheelbase by 20 cm, narrow the chassis by 10 cm and set a minimum weight of 768 kg, a reduction of 32 kg from the previous season. Downforce is also reduced, meaning drivers will have to work harder with the steering wheel and the cars will feel less glued to the track.

Single‑seater director Nikolas Tombazis said the changes represent a step forward, noting that the turbulent air behind the cars has been brought back to levels seen at the start of the previous regulation era. He added that teams will have less scope to devise loophole solutions that undermine the spirit of the rules. The technical details received little attention earlier in the year, being eclipsed by complaints over power‑unit performance and energy‑management issues.