The Formula 1 Commission met in Bahrain on Wednesday during the final pre-season test, discussing feedback on the 2026 cars and safety concerns over race starts. The FIA has decided against immediate modifications to the start procedure, citing immature feedback. Discussions also covered expanding sprint races to 12 events.
All 11 Formula 1 teams, along with the FIA and F1 executives, convened for the F1 Commission meeting on the first day of the final pre-season test in Bahrain, two weeks before the season-opening Australian Grand Prix on March 8.
A key topic was the safety of race starts with the new 2026 cars, which require more turbo boost pressure and thus additional time to accelerate from the grid. McLaren team principal Andrea Stella had expressed concerns last week about the risk of dangerous collisions. Despite constructive discussions and proposals, the FIA resisted calls for immediate changes to the start procedure or technical regulations.
The FIA's statement highlighted positive driver feedback on the 2026 cars, noting their reduced weight, smaller dimensions, improved ride quality, and stronger initial acceleration. Further technical checks on energy management will occur over the next three days of the Bahrain test. The commission agreed that no major regulatory changes are needed immediately, as initial evidence remains immature, and premature adjustments could introduce instability before the first race. Additional reviews will follow as more data emerges.
Talks also addressed proposals to double the number of sprint races from six to 12, which would occupy half of the 24-race calendar—a format criticized by four-time world champion Max Verstappen.
While the door remains open for last-minute updates, time is limited ahead of the Melbourne opener. One source noted the commission's emphasis on positive feedback regarding the 2026 cars, while downplaying negative aspects.
