The season has just ended but in F1 it is already time to look to the future. In particular to the season that will see a new change in the regulations, namely 2026. While waiting to find out what the last season with the current single-seaters will have in store for us, the FIA has decided to release the first official images of the cars for 2026, offering an in-depth look at how the cars that will take to the track in the near future will change. These new cars represent a new era for Formula 1, with a focus on smaller dimensions, lighter weight and advanced technologies.
Slimmer and lighter single-seaters
The new regulations for 2026 include a reduction in the size and weight of the cars. The wheelbase is shortened from a maximum of 3600 mm to 3400 mm, while the width will decrease from 2000 mm to 1900 mm. This not only improves the agility of the car, but also offers greater safety and ease of maneuverability. “These changes are designed to improve the driving dynamics and overall safety of the cars”, commented Nikolas Tombazis, FIA single-seater technical director.
Revolutionized aerodynamic design:
The new aerodynamic specifications are one of the most evident features of the 2026 single-seater renderings. The bottom of the cars has been completely revisited. Among the main objectives is not only to improve performance in the corners but also to have a clean and dense wake. Allowing the cars to reach higher speeds on the straights.
Innovations for 2026
In addition to the revised floor layout, the wing design has been modified to improve the flow rate of air under the body by optimising the air fill intended to be channelled to the floor.
The aerodynamic aspect is further enriched by new solutions for the management of lateral flow. The side bulkheads have been revised, increasing the external surface and adopting an arch more similar to those of today, to favor a better outwash of the flows. The DRS command, previously visible in the renderings, has been eliminated in the most recent models, highlighting a further technological development.
To complete this picture, 2026 will see the entry of an eleventh team, Cadillac – General Motors, who will race as Ferrari customers for the power unit and gearbox.
