F1: F1 Commission agrees reduction in race distances

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21 Sep 2026, 18:03
F1: F1 Commission agrees reduction in race distances

As from next year, races distances are reduced to 290km to accommodate the revised rules on fuel flow.

The third meeting of the Formula 1 Commission in 2026 took place today, at the offices of the FIA in London. The meeting was chaired by FIA Single-Seater Director Nikolas Tombazis and FOM President and CEO Stefano Domenicali.

The following is an overview of the key discussion points:

2026 Regulatory changes

Minor changes to the 2026 Sporting and Financial Regulations were agreed.

2027 Regulatory changes

In line with the refinements to the Power Unit regulations to be introduced in 2027 on fuel flow, a reduction in the total race distance from 305km to 290km was approved, corresponding to a reduction of two or three laps.

Regarding races that are disrupted by rain or other factors, it was decided that a hard stop time would be introduced for the end of any racing activity, but that the current limitation of a race to three hours (from its start to its end - including interruptions) would be removed. The limit of two hours of actual racing will remain. These changes were introduced to ensure that the spectators have the best possible chance to enjoy a full race if disruptions occur. It was also agreed that there would be greater flexibility to extend Free Practice sessions should they be interrupted.

Following consultation with the relevant manufacturer working group, and a recommendation from the Sporting Advisory Committee, it was agreed to remove gearbox homologation for 2027 which would preserve supplier development freedom. There are also minor changes to the 2027 Technical Regulations.

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