F1 2026: New Catch-Up Rules and Hybrid Engine Challenges

Formula 1 bosses have reached a preliminary agreement on a mechanism designed to help engine manufacturers who may face performance shortfalls under the new regulations set to take effect in 2026. This catch-up mechanism aims to level the playing field, ensuring that all teams can compete effectively despite potential disparities in engine performance.

Hybrid Engine Overhaul

The 2026 regulations will retain the 1.6-litre turbo hybrid engines but will introduce a simplified architecture. A significant change is the increase in the proportion of power supplied by the electrical component of the engine, rising from the current 20% to approximately 50%. This shift towards greater reliance on hybrid technology is expected to enhance sustainability, with engines running on sustainable fuels.

However, this increased emphasis on hybrid systems has raised concerns about potential performance gaps between manufacturers. With Red Bull Powertrains and Audi joining the current suppliers—Mercedes, Ferrari, and Honda—in 2026, the competition is set to intensify. The new rules were pivotal in attracting Audi and Red Bull's partner Ford, as well as convincing Honda to remain in the sport. General Motors has also been persuaded to enter F1, with plans to launch a Cadillac-branded team using Ferrari engines next year and developing its own power unit by 2029.

Electrical Energy Management

One of the key challenges under the 2026 rules is the management of electrical energy. There are concerns that cars may struggle to recover sufficient energy from the rear axle to deploy the maximum permitted electrical power throughout a lap. To address this, aerodynamic rules have been adjusted to include moveable aerodynamics, reducing drag on straights and allowing for higher top speeds and longer braking periods.

Despite these changes, some fear that drivers may need to 'lift-and-coast' early on straights at certain circuits to optimize energy deployment and overall performance. This could lead to situations where cars either run out of energy or have excess energy, potentially undermining the effectiveness of the new push-to-pass electrical boost system set to replace the current DRS overtaking aid.

Proposed Solutions and Opposition

One proposed solution is to reduce the permitted electrical power deployment in races from 350kw (470bhp) to 200kw (270bhp), while maintaining the higher limit during qualifying and for the push-to-pass system. This adjustment aims to create a more consistent energy deployment around the lap. Red Bull is a strong supporter of this idea, but Mercedes is firmly opposed. Mercedes F1 boss Toto Wolff has criticized the proposal, arguing that it is premature to make such changes before the cars have been tested and their aerodynamic performance accurately assessed.

Other Discussions

In addition to the engine and energy management discussions, F1 bosses also debated ways to minimize the risk of grass fires, such as those that caused multiple red flags during practice at the Japanese Grand Prix. These fires were sparked by titanium skid blocks igniting dry grass beside the track. While replacing titanium with steel at problematic tracks was considered, the idea was not adopted. However, the FIA will continue to research potential solutions.

Next Steps

The F1 Commission has passed the details of the catch-up mechanism and other proposals to the power-unit working group for further refinement. Discussions will continue in the appropriate advisory committees, with the goal of finalizing the regulations to ensure fair and competitive racing in 2026 and beyond.