Formula 1’s governing body has approved a wide range of technical rule changes set to take effect from the Miami Grand Prix, following criticism of the 2026 cars and engines. The updates focus on improving qualifying performance, enhancing race safety, refining race start procedures and improving visibility and control in wet conditions. The adjustments were agreed after meetings involving teams, engine manufacturers and drivers, and are expected to receive final formal approval.

To address complaints that drivers were unable to push at full speed, changes to energy management will reduce excessive energy harvesting and limit the need for lift-and-coast driving. Maximum recharge levels will be lowered and power deployment increased to encourage more consistent flat-out driving in both qualifying and races.

Race regulations have also been revised to reduce dangerous speed differentials between cars, following recent high-profile crashes. Power usage during overtaking will be more tightly controlled, with maximum output restricted to key acceleration zones. Wet-weather measures include higher tire blanket temperatures for intermediate tires, reduced engine energy deployment and simplified rear lighting systems to improve visibility.

New race start systems designed to detect unusually slow launches will be tested in Miami. These include automatic energy deployment to ensure minimum acceleration and new visual warning lights to alert other drivers. All drivers will also begin races with equal energy levels to promote fairness and safety.