Formula 1 Commission Meeting: Key Decisions and Regulatory Changes for 2026
The Formula 1 Commission held its final meeting of the year on November 14, 2025, at the FIA's London headquarters. This meeting, chaired by FIA Single-Seater Director Nikolas Tombazis and FOM President and CEO Stefano Domenicali, covered a range of critical topics that will shape the future of Formula 1 racing.
Key Discussion Points:
Regulatory Overhaul
The Commission discussed updates to the Technical, Sporting, Financial, and Operational Regulations, with a focus on the 2026 season. A significant proposal involves mandatory two-pit stops for grands prix, along with changes to tire specifications, tire life limits, and the use of three compounds during races. These adjustments aim to enhance race strategy and strategy, drawing on feedback from teams and Pirelli.
Aerodynamic Testing Restrictions (ATR)
To align Formula 1 with modern processing and simulation technology, the Commission is revising Aerodynamic Testing Restrictions (ATR). These changes will be made while considering cost implications, ensuring a balance between innovation and financial feasibility.
Car Liveries and Driver Numbers
A new regulation for 2026 will mandate a minimum surface area requirement for car liveries. Commission representatives agreed that at least 55% of the car's surface area (when viewed from the side and above) must be covered by painted or stickered liveries, reducing the visibility of bare carbon fiber surfaces. This measure aims to enhance visual differentiation between cars.
Additionally, the Commission discussed changes to the regulation on permanent competition numbers for drivers, introduced in 2014. It was decided that drivers will be allowed to change their numbers during their careers, providing more flexibility and personalization.
Driving Cooling System
The Commission explored the potential mandatory adoption of the Driving Cooling System (DCS) for 2026. Redesigns to the current DCS and cooling garments were proposed, along with an increased weight allowance for DCS usage. Further driver feedback will be gathered through the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA) to ensure the system meets the needs of the drivers.
Next Steps
All these regulatory changes are subject to approval by the FIA World Motor Sport Council (WMSC). The Commission's decisions will significantly impact the technical and sporting aspects of Formula 1 racing in 2026, shaping the future of the sport and the strategies of teams and drivers alike.
