For now, what F1 has decided is to change the 50/50 distribution between the combustion engine and the electric part with a view to 2027. Betting on the latter does not seem to have been to the liking of many inside the paddock and outside of it. That lapidary phrase to define Max Verstappen’s new cars (“Formula E on steroids”) has summarized what many think. After conferences have taken place between those who are part of the contest, the conclusion has been reached that we should back off a little.
This Friday it was made public that there will be a readjustment of the propellant regulations implemented this year. The essential thing is that there will be an increase in the power of the internal combustion engine (ICE). It will grow by around 50 kilowatts. While the electrical part will be reduced by 50 kilowatts. That is what concerns the deployment power of the energy recovery system (ERS). That is, the new distribution will be 60/40 in favor of the combustion engine. That will be alleviated to a certain extent, said Fernando Alonso (“now the game will have more energy available”). A fact that did not help produce better action on the track.
FIA statement
The governing body has specified that the team directors, F1 management and representatives of the five power unit manufacturers were present at today’s online meeting. The statement issued by the FIA is the following:
“Today’s conclave began with a review of the modifications introduced for the Miami Grand Prix, before the discussion turned to longer-term policy issues. The conclusion from the implementation of the modifications in Miami, designed to improve safety and reduce excessive energy harvesting, was that they resulted in greater competitiveness and were a step in the right direction. Following analysis and consultation, the FIA reported that no major problems or safety issues had been identified in Miami.”
“Evaluation of the Miami package remains ongoing with a view to introducing further adjustments to future events. These include revisions to improve safety at the start and measures to improve safety in wet conditions. These will be communicated to the teams once defined. Improvements to the visual signaling measures for the Canadian Grand Prix are being evaluated.”
“In terms of longer-term measures, there was unanimous commitment to introduce changes that would further improve fair and safe competition, were intuitive for drivers and teams and were in the best interests of the sport.”
“The measures agreed in principle today for 2027 would involve a nominal increase in the power of the internal combustion engine –ICE– of around 50 kilowatts, with an increase in fuel flow and a nominal reduction in the deployment power of the energy recovery system –ERS– of around 50 kilowatts.”
“It was agreed that further discussion was necessary in technical groups made up of teams and power unit manufacturers before deciding on the final package.”
“The final proposals presented during today’s meeting are the result of a series of consultations held over recent weeks between the FIA and various stakeholders, with invaluable input from F1 drivers.”
“The next step is to formally submit these regulatory changes, once refined, for electronic voting at the World Motor Sport Council, once the power unit manufacturers have voted on this package.”
“The 2026 regulations have been developed and agreed in close collaboration between the FIA, the FOM, the teams, the original equipment manufacturers and the power unit manufacturers. Today’s proposals have been discussed within the framework of this spirit of collaboration.”
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