Overview

• The FIA says initial 2026 cars are projected to be 1.0–2.5 seconds per lap slower and stresses lap-time deltas will matter less than race quality, while noting predictions carry uncertainty without full team data.
• DRS will be replaced by dynamic X/Z aerodynamic modes plus a Manual Override boost that is being tuned circuit by circuit to keep passes difficult but feasible.
• Mercedes’ Toto Wolff says simulations suggest next‑gen cars could approach 400 km/h on straights, with James Allison outlining reduced ground-effect influence and a flatter floor concept.
• Aston Martin development driver Felipe Drugovich reports explosive corner-exit acceleration from higher electric torque and a noticeable power fade late on straights in simulator runs.
• Brake supplier Brembo reports teams are specifying extremely small rear brake discs due to greater energy harvesting, cautioning some designs may need revising once testing begins.