Formula 1 stakeholders are set to meet next week to address the biggest problems arising under the 2026 rules, with six potential solutions reportedly under discussion, The Race reports. The first three races have exposed the strengths and weaknesses of the new regulations, prompting urgent talks ahead of the Miami Grand Prix on May 3.
The yo-yo racing effect has divided fans and drivers, but Formula 1 does not see this as requiring immediate action. Paddock consensus focuses on other urgent matters that may need rule tweaks.
Safety Concerns Top Agenda
Ollie Bearman’s high-speed crash at the Japanese Grand Prix has placed safety at the top of the agenda. The incident, caused by a 50km/h differential between his car in boost mode and Franco Colapinto’s energy-saving Alpine ahead, highlighted the risks of energy mismanagement.
Here’s the moment Bearman went into the barriers at Spoon #F1 #JapaneseGP pic.twitter.com/XmurXApWkp
— Formula 1 (@F1) March 29, 2026
Team leaders insist changes must be made before another serious accident occurs.
Qualifying and Speed Issues
Qualifying has been widely criticised in 2026 for excessive energy management, lift and coast, and algorithm quirks that penalise drivers for minor input differences. Drivers, including Charles Leclerc and Lando Norris, have noted extreme speed drops at the end of straights, which spoil the spectacle and onboard visuals.
Rule changes are expected to focus on flattening the speed curve so peak speeds occur closer to the end of straights.
Potential Solutions
The six solutions being considered include:
- Increase super clipping power: Allow drivers to harvest more energy at full throttle, reducing reliance on lift and coast.
- Make cars slower in qualifying: Adjust energy deployment to extend battery life and encourage flat-out driving.
- Stricter recharge limits: Reduce the maximum energy recovered per lap to limit conservative driving tactics.
- Expand active aero usage: Open up straight mode deployment to reduce drag and improve speed management.
- Engine tweaks for 2027: Increase internal combustion engine contribution to reduce battery dependency.
- Simplify the rules: Remove algorithm quirks and complex thresholds to give drivers more control over performance.
Data from pre-season testing and early races will inform the discussions, with a goal to implement changes before the next race. While engine tweaks are unlikely this year, safety and energy management adjustments are a priority.
Focus on Driver Control
Officials aim to restore the balance between driver skill and car performance, reducing over-reliance on software to manage energy and qualifying outcomes. Simplifying the regulations is seen as key to returning to a more driver-centred spectacle.
