Grand Prix races are set to become shorter from 2027 after the Formula 1 Commission approved a reduction in Grand Prix distance alongside changes to disrupted-event time limits and gearbox development rules.

The Commission, meeting at the FIA’s London offices on September 21, agreed to cut the normal race distance from 305km to 290km as part of refinements linked to the 2027 power unit regulations. The change is expected to remove around two or three laps from a Grand Prix.

The move follows earlier FIA changes to the 2027 and 2028 power unit framework aimed at reducing energy management and increasing flat-out running, including adjustments to engine output, fuel energy flow and electrical deployment.

The meeting, the third Formula 1 Commission gathering of 2026, was chaired by FIA Single-Seater Director Nikolas Tombazis and Formula One Management President and CEO Stefano Domenicali.

The Commission also agreed a revised approach for races disrupted by rain or other stoppages. A hard stop time will be introduced for the end of racing activity, while the existing three-hour maximum window from the start to the finish of a Grand Prix, including interruptions, will be removed.

The two-hour limit on actual racing will remain. The FIA said the change was intended to give spectators the best possible chance of seeing a full race when delays or stoppages occur.

Greater flexibility to extend free practice sessions

Greater flexibility will also be allowed to extend free practice sessions when they are interrupted, addressing situations where red flags or other delays substantially reduce running time.

Formula 1 will also remove gearbox homologation from 2027 following consultation with the relevant manufacturer working group and a recommendation from the Sporting Advisory Committee.

The FIA said the change would preserve development freedom for suppliers. Minor amendments to the 2027 Technical Regulations were also agreed, along with smaller changes to the 2026 Sporting and Financial Regulations.

The package continues a year of regulatory refinement following Formula 1’s major 2026 technical overhaul. The FIA World Motor Sport Council approved further changes in June, including an additional pre-season testing day from 2027 and revisions to the power unit framework.

All changes agreed by the Formula 1 Commission remain subject to approval by the World Motor Sport Council.