The 2026 Formula 1 cars are visually different from last year's models, with major media reports indicating the goal is to provide more entertaining racing for the audience. Formula 1 expects a reduction in downforce of up to 30 percent and a reduction in drag of up to 55 percent with the changes, and the cars produce less dirty air that disturbs following cars.
Key aerodynamic and chassis modifications aim to make the cars more nimble to maneuver. The wheelbase is reduced by 20 centimeters to 3.4 meters, and the minimum weight is cut by 30 kilograms from 798 to 768 kilograms, according to major media. The narrower tires mean less grip, while the wings have a new appearance and function. Barge boards have been added behind the front wheels to change airflow, and the cars have flatter, higher floors compared to the 2022-2025 models.
The DRS (drag reduction system) is being replaced by active aero in 2026, with drivers able to open and adjust the angle of both front and rear wings on selected straight sections to increase top speed. This active aero capability is available to all drivers every lap, as reported by major media.
New power unit and energy management systems are creating strategic racing, with drivers having a boost button on their steering wheel to maximize engine and battery power. They can use the boost button all at once or spread out over a lap, and can set the car to overtake mode when within one second of the car ahead to use extra power from the battery. The energy recovery system (ERS) is much more efficient, allowing twice as much energy to be recovered per lap, and drivers can recharge the battery in various ways, including during braking. The new F1 engines have a 50-50 split between internal combustion and electrical power, are energy starved as a fundamental basis of the rules, and have led to teams and drivers constantly managing energy levels through a lap. This has resulted in 'yo-yo racing' in the first two grands prix of the year, where cars pass and re-pass due to different energy levels.
Lewis Hamilton has given positive feedback on the improved racing and following ability. According to BBC News, Hamilton described that out of all the cars he has driven in 20 years, this is the only car where you can follow through high speed without losing grip. He said the new Formula 1 car this year is much more fun than any other time in his career, and noted his multi-lap battle with teammate Charles Leclerc at the previous race in China was the best battle he has had since his duel with Nico Rosberg in Bahrain in 2014. According to BBC News, Hamilton described racing should be back and forth, not just one move and then it's over.
However, concerns exist about reduced driving challenge and mixed driver reactions. The need to recover electrical energy in qualifying means cars are under-powered for parts of the lap, reducing the driving challenge, major media reports. According to BBC News, Hamilton described that he is enjoying the racing this year, but many drivers are not. He also noted he dislikes the power deployment and straight-line mode.
Regulatory adjustments and ongoing assessments are underway to address issues. Teams agreed with the FIA and F1 to assess the issue of driving on the limit in qualifying to find improvements before the Miami race, and the FIA has issued a rule change for the Japan race weekend reducing the total energy cars can recover in one lap from nine megajoules to eight.