The FIA convened technical experts from Formula 1 teams and power unit manufacturers on Thursday for initial discussions on improving the 2026 engine regulations. The meeting addressed concerns over energy management and safety following incidents like Oliver Bearman's crash in Japan. The governing body outlined a timeline for further collaborative sessions.
Technical experts gathered to propose tweaks to the 2026 technical and sporting regulations, focusing on energy management in qualifying and high closing speeds when cars deplete electric energy. The FIA highlighted a commitment from stakeholders to refine these aspects, noting exciting racing so far but room for adjustments. Potential changes include reducing deployable electric energy and increasing harvestable energy during full-throttle battery charging, though major overhauls are unlikely before May's Miami Grand Prix. Smaller refinements may come sooner based on driver feedback and early-season data from races including Japan, where Haas driver Oliver Bearman suffered a major accident due to these dynamics. The FIA described the dialogue as constructive despite competitive tensions. Further meetings are set for the coming fortnight: a Sporting Regulations discussion on April 15, a technical session on April 16, and a high-level stakeholder meeting on April 20. That gathering, resembling an F1 Commission session with added power unit manufacturer representatives, aims to build consensus on preferred options. An e-vote will follow shortly, with changes ratified by the FIA World Motor Sport Council. The 2026 rules were originally developed collaboratively with teams, manufacturers, the commercial rights holder, and the FIA.
