Overview
- The FIA explained that the new overtaking mode replaces DRS in 2026, activating within one second to allow roughly 0.5 MJ extra energy recovery and extended ERS deployment up to about 355 km/h.
- The 2026 qualifying format will keep Q1 and Q2 durations but eliminate six cars in each segment, retaining a ten-car Q3, a change driven by an expanded 22-car grid with Cadillac joining.
- Audi became the first team to run a 2026-spec car, completing a 200 km filming/shakedown at Barcelona with Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto on demonstration tires.
- An engine compression dispute tied to the 2026 power-unit rules has prompted an FIA manufacturers’ meeting on January 22, and Alpine has postponed its planned shakedown as it awaits clarity.
- Valtteri Bottas will serve a five-place grid penalty at the Australian Grand Prix, carried over from a 2024 Abu Dhabi incident.