How F1 aims to reduce weight of 2026 cars while also cutting aerodynamic load

How F1 aims to reduce weight of 2026 cars while also cutting aerodynamic load. Nikolas Tombazis's plans for the new generation of Formula 1 cars.

Nikolas Tombazis’s plans
For years, the weight of Formula 1 cars, rather than decreasing as desired by the drivers, has continued to rise, even for virtuous reasons such as safety. The current cars approach the 800 kg regulation limit, and the fact that the single-seaters are so heavy and bulky in terms of dimensions makes overtaking more challenging.

Furthermore, the ‘urban drift’ of the Formula 1 calendar does not align well with these voluminous and less agile machines designed to deliver maximum performance on the medium and high-speed curves of permanent circuits such as Suzuka, Silverstone, and Spa-Francorchamps. It is, therefore, not surprising that the FIA intends to significantly reduce the weight of the new generation of cars in 2026.

The goal is to remove 40-50 kilograms, according to the statements made by the FIA’s technical chief for single-seaters, Nikolas Tombazis. The 2026 cars will be shorter (the wheelbase will decrease from the current 3600 mm to 3400 mm) and narrower (from 2000 mm to 1900 mm). Additionally, the intention is to return to 16-inch wheels instead of 18.

Nikolas Tombazis believes that the lower aerodynamic load developed by the cars will also allow teams to equip themselves with lighter suspensions, creating a virtuous circle in the context of the weight loss plan: “We aim to have a significantly lower weight limit, and we are looking to reduce the weight limit by 40-50 kilograms in 2026” – Nikolas Tombazis explained in a recent interview for Autosport – “The way we want to do it is related to what we have defined as an ‘agile car’ concept because we believe that in recent years, cars have become a bit too bulky and heavy. We are looking to focus on 16-inch wheels, with a smaller diameter and width both at the front and rear. Loads on components like suspensions will decrease thanks to the lower aerodynamic downforce, allowing teams to reduce weight accordingly.” – the former Ferrari racing car designer concluded.