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FIA Moves to Simplify 2026 F1 Terms, Phasing Out Confusing Labels

The FIA plans to standardize plain-language terms for 2026 across radio, TV coverage, the rulebook.

Overview

  • Final naming decisions have not been announced, with officials targeting confirmation before year’s end, potentially as soon as the week commencing 15 December.
  • The widely derided Manual Override Mode label is expected to be replaced by the simpler term overtake mode, according to current guidance reported by multiple outlets.
  • Standard battery deployment on straights is likely to be referred to as boost, separating it from the temporary overtake function.
  • Wing settings previously described as X/Y or straightline/cornering modes are set to be grouped under a single active aero descriptor.
  • DRS will be removed for 2026, with overtaking assistance shifting to continuous active aerodynamics on both wings plus an electric power boost when within one second of a car ahead.