Formula 1 to scrap confusing X-mode, Z-mode and Manual Override Mode names for 2026 regulations. The FIA is preparing to simplify terms like X-mode, Z-mode and Manual Override Mode.

New rules and new terminology are coming, and the FIA has decided to simplify everything ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season by changing the concepts of X-mode, Z-mode and MOM. With the arrival of the new technical regulations, teams and drivers will face fresh challenges, but so will the fans. Understanding the races, especially at the beginning, could become complicated. With the removal of DRS, several new “active” elements will appear on the cars, and a unified, simplified set of terms for everyone could be the solution.

The changes planned for the 2026 rulebook will continue to generate discussion, especially while we wait for the first next-generation cars to be unveiled. The electrical side of the power unit will play a more central role in the new cars, and Formula 1 will abandon ground-effect design in favour of fully active aerodynamics. We have already seen a preview of this system during the Pirelli tests in Abu Dhabi, where some teams – including Ferrari – ran with movable front wings.

But while Formula 1 prepares to say goodbye to the DRS, three new “modes” are being introduced: X-mode (flat wings on straights), Z-mode (increased downforce in corners), and Manual Override Mode (a stronger electric boost when the chasing car is within one second of the car ahead). These terms have already undergone small tweaks, yet that still isn’t enough. The Federation’s objective is to help fans clearly understand what is happening on track.

Tombazis: “We want to make the terminology clear and simple”

Speaking to autosport.com, FIA single-seater director Nikolas Tombazis explained the next steps: “We are reviewing part of the terminology because we want to make it clear and simple, so that fans can understand what is going on.”

He continued: “We want to have unified terminology, used by the teams when they talk to the drivers over the radio, but also by the TV commentators, and the same terminology should be present in the regulations. So we are working right now to make sure we create the most appropriate set of terms.”

Expect an official announcement on the final mode names sometime in the coming weeks as the FIA continues to finalise the 2026 technical and sporting regulations.