The FIA has confirmed that a crucial change will be made to next year’s Formula 1 Sporting Regulations, after a meeting of the F1 Commission.
The sport has undergone some major changes already this season, with the all-new technical regulations, headed by near 50/50 hybrid engines, a polarising topic of conversation for fans and drivers alike.
Such was the kickback from this after the first three rounds, swift alterations were made to ensure a gradual swing back towards ICE power over the next two seasons.
Much talk has continued with large sections of the sport calling for a return to near or fully ICE-powered cars when the next regulation cycle takes place, projected to be 2031.
But in the present, F1’s CEO Stefano Domenicali and the FIA’s single-seater director, Nikolas Tombazis, chaired a meeting on Monday in which a change was approved, in line with the current regulations.
F1 races to lessen by 15km
The change that was agreed is to shorten the total race distance by 15 kilometres, which, according to statement released by the FIA, is to ensure a better viewing prospect for fans, as well as providing stability to other aspects of the race weekend.
“In line with the refinements to the Power Unit regulations to be introduced in 2027 on fuel flow, a reduction in the total race distance from 305km to 290km was approved, corresponding to a reduction of two or three laps,” the statement read.
“Regarding races that are disrupted by rain or other factors, it was decided that a hard stop time would be introduced for the end of any racing activity, but that the current limitation of a race to three hours (from its start to its end – including interruptions) would be removed. The limit of two hours of actual racing will remain. These changes were introduced to ensure that the spectators have the best possible chance to enjoy a full race if disruptions occur. It was also agreed that there would be greater flexibility to extend Free Practice sessions should they be interrupted.
“Following consultation with the relevant manufacturer working group, and a recommendation from the Sporting Advisory Committee, it was agreed to remove gearbox homologation for 2027 which would preserve supplier development freedom. There are also minor changes to the 2027 Technical Regulations.”
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