The F1 Commission met on Tuesday for the third time in 2024 to discuss changes to be implemented for the 2026 Formula 1 championship. The agenda included topics related to the points system, pre-season testing, and various modifications to the sporting and technical regulations. Here are all the details.
The points system
The proposal to award points beyond the 10th place was discussed during the meeting in London, chaired by F1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali and FIA Single-Seater Director Nikolas Tombazis. After lengthy discussions, it was unanimously decided not to extend the points zone and to keep the current system.
“It was unanimously decided that there will be no changes to the distribution of Championship points (as described in Articles 6.4 and 6.5 of the Sporting Regulations) following a recent proposal to consider extending the awarding of points beyond the 10th place in a Grand Prix.”
The minimum weight of the cars
The next change concerns the minimum weight of the car and its driver. From the 2025 championship, it was decided that the maximum weight of each driver will increase from the current 80 kg to 82 kg, thus bringing the cars to weigh 800 kg.
“The minimum driver weight will be increased from 80 kg to 82 kg in the interest of driver well-being. Consequently, the minimum weight – the mass of the car without fuel – will be increased from 798 kg to 800 kg for 2025.”
Pre-season testing
Regarding pre-season testing in 2026, the track activity hours have been increased, allowing cars and drivers to drive for nine days, which will be divided into three events of three days each.
The 2026 regulations
The final topic addressed during the F1 Commission meeting examined the 2026 Formula 1 regulations, and according to a press release, the FIA decided that: “The overall strategic objectives of the 2026 Regulations were reiterated, establishing that the primary goal is to achieve fast and close racing that continues to engage and excite fans. An update on the timing of the 2026 Regulations covering technical, sporting, financial, and environmental issues was provided, and the ongoing collaboration conducted by the FIA with all teams is in line with the objectives and is moving in the right direction for the finalization of the regulations. Following further discussions during the upcoming technical and sporting advisory committees, an update on the 2026 regulations related to sporting and technical rules will be presented on October 17 at the World Motor Sport Council. An extraordinary meeting of the F1 Commission will be held on October 2 to discuss 2026.”
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