The 2026 Formula 1 season will introduce radical changes in both the adoption of new systems and the removal of some technologies that have been central to the sport over the last decade. The most notable departure will be the Drag Reduction System, universally known as DRS. From January 1, 2026, the DRS will be retired, replaced by the newly developed X-Mode.
X-Mode is a low-downforce aerodynamic mode, designed to improve straight-line speed at specific points on the circuit, independently of the gaps between cars. Conversely, the high-downforce setting will be known as Z-Mode. These modes can be actively controlled by the drivers, who will adjust the front and rear wing flaps via a dedicated cockpit button. While X-Mode activation requires pressing a button, Z-Mode can also be engaged simply by applying the brake pedal. The X-Mode must then be deactivated when entering braking zones, switching back to Z-Mode to ensure proper downforce for cornering.
The removal of DRS has generated discussion and concern within the paddock. Many experts have questioned whether the number of overtakes might decrease significantly, potentially affecting on-track action and overall spectacle, which in turn could influence fan engagement and interest in Formula 1.
To counter these concerns, the FIA is introducing an additional mechanism to support overtaking: the Override Engine Mode. This system provides a temporary power boost derived directly from the car’s power unit. As a leading car’s energy deployment naturally decreases after reaching approximately 290 km/h, and drops to zero at 355 km/h, the following car can take advantage of a power surplus. This extra energy will come from the MGU-K, as the MGU-H will be banned starting in 2026. The Override Engine Mode will supply up to 350 kW of additional power until 337 km/h, with a supplementary 0.5 megajoule boost available for overtaking maneuvers.
The FIA’s concept is to give a car following another the flexibility to deploy this surplus energy as needed, providing a crucial extra push to attempt a pass before the end of a straight.
James Vowles, team principal of Williams Racing, does not share the concerns that overtaking could be reduced due to the introduction of active aerodynamics on both the front and rear wings or the replacement of the current DRS system with the Override Engine Mode.
“I think we will see much more pronounced differences in speed on certain straights, thanks to the ability to manage energy and the various aerodynamic and engine modes,” explained James Vowles, the team principal of the Grove-based squad. “As a result, I believe that overtaking could actually be enhanced, rather than hindered, as a direct outcome of these changes.”
He continued: “The concept of racing in 2026 means that if you have a faster car, there will be more tools available as a driver to attempt overtakes compared to this year, including advantages similar to what DRS offered previously. With X-Mode, Z-Mode, and Override Engine Mode, the potential for strategic passing will be greater than ever.”
The FIA’s new approach represents a significant evolution in Formula 1, aiming to preserve on-track excitement while modernizing the sport’s technological framework. By combining active aerodynamics with controlled engine boosts, the 2026 season promises to maintain—and possibly increase—the intensity of overtaking battles along F1 circuits worldwide.
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