2026 approaches: many updates to F1 cars emerge after latest regulation change
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The officialization of the new technical regulations, which will come into force in 2026, is drawing closer. Starting January 1, 2025, teams will have the green light to work on the aerodynamics of the next-generation cars. This process, which has so far only been at the CAD level, will lead to the first simulations at the beginning of the year. Let's take a look at the differences and updates present in the 2026 cars after the latest F1 regulatory changes.
The biggest innovations in the next-generation cars are several, from a weight reduction of about 30 kg to changes in dimensions. However, what truly breaks with the past is the active aerodynamics featuring X and Z Modes. Additionally, the arrival of a "simplified" power unit and the Override mode will make things even more exciting. It's a sort of "2014 2.0" that will reveal which team has best managed the integration of thermal and electric components.
Significant Progress in the Latest Update
Looking at the latest regulation updates, defined as Issue 8 and Issue 9, the 2026 cars seem fairly similar. However, the FIA has worked on details to enhance and optimize the aerodynamics of the new cars.
From a side view, there are numerous changes, from new bargeboards to additional wing elements on the front wing endplate. The bargeboard, for now, has a distinctly different shape, shorter and taller. Additionally, a support arm has been added to prevent unintended flexing of the profile, which plays a crucial role in managing in-wash flows. Moving to the front wing elements, the FIA has chosen to position the flap for an up-wash function, different from the slight out-wash of the previous version. Moreover, below the flaps, there is a new, vertically positioned flow deflector to energize the flow directed towards the floor.
There are also major changes at the floor inlet, where small fences have been added for better aerodynamic flow management. Additionally, the inlet shape has been significantly altered, now considerably smaller than what was seen in Issue 8.
The final version of the 2026 Formula 1 technical regulations is coming soon. These updates have allowed teams to optimize and accelerate the development of cars that are still in an embryonic stage.
Source: f1ingenerale
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