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Formula 1 to reduce Grand Prix race distances starting in 2027
The FIA and Formula 1 Commission have approved significant regulatory changes for the 2027 season, most notably reducing the standard Grand Prix race distance from 305km to 290km. This reduction, which equates to approximately two or three fewer laps per race, is a response to upcoming power unit modifications that will increase fuel flow to deliver more power. By shortening the races, the sport can accommodate higher fuel consumption without requiring larger fuel tanks.
Technical changes also include a shift in the power unit balance, moving toward a 60% combustion and 40% electric power split by 2028. Additionally, the commission has canceled plans for gearbox homologation to allow manufacturers more development freedom. Regarding race interruptions, the fixed three-hour elapsed-time limit for disrupted races will be removed, though the two-hour net racing limit remains. A strict finishing deadline will instead be used to manage timing during weather or other delays.
The decisions have met with mixed reactions from drivers. Fernando Alonso has been a vocal critic, arguing that current regulations reduce racing excitement and force drivers to manage energy rather than pure speed. He described the current state of certain circuits as having lost their traditional character. Conversely, Lewis Hamilton expressed disagreement with the distance reduction, suggesting that races should be longer to increase the physical challenge for drivers.
Entities
F1 Commission · FIA · Fernando Alonso · Formula 1 · Lando Norris · Lewis Hamilton · Monaco · Monaco Grand Prix · Nikolas Tombazis · Stefano Domenicali
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The Monaco Grand Prix will remain at its current distance of 260km. diariopanorama.com
- [● 6 SOURCES] The F1 Commission removed the fixed three-hour elapsed-time restriction for disrupted races while maintaining a two-hour racing limit. autotrader.co.nz · diariopanorama.com · www.paixebala.gr · bravosports.net.ve · informaparaiba.com.br · +1 more
- [● 2 SOURCES] The power unit split will move toward 60% combustion and 40% electric power by 2028. autotrader.co.nz · www.intensemans.fr
- [● 8 SOURCES] The race distance reduction will result in approximately two to three fewer laps per race. autotrader.co.nz · eldeportivo.com.co · diariopanorama.com · dominicanaaldia.com · www.paixebala.gr · +3 more
- [● 5 SOURCES] Plans for gearbox homologation were canceled to preserve development freedom for suppliers. eldeportivo.com.co · www.paixebala.gr · bravosports.net.ve · informaparaiba.com.br · autotrader.co.nz
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Maximum combustion-engine output will increase from 400kW to 420kW in 2027 due to a 5% increase in fuel flow. autotrader.co.nz
- [○ 1 SOURCE] By 2028, power unit output is planned to reach 450kW with a 13% increase in fuel flow. autotrader.co.nz
- [● 9 SOURCES] The FIA approved reducing the standard race distance from 305km to 290km starting in 2027. autotrader.co.nz · eldeportivo.com.co · diariopanorama.com · www.allgaeuer-zeitung.de · dominicanaaldia.com · +4 more
- [● 7 SOURCES] Fernando Alonso criticized current regulations, stating they reduce racing excitement and force drivers to manage energy rather than pure speed. www.brasilemfolhas.com.br · sidneysilva.com.br · www.cnnbrasil.com.br · correiodobrasil.com.br · www.lasexta.com · +2 more