Overview
- The 2022–2025 cars generated most downforce through large underfloor Venturi tunnels, a solution that ultimately grew highly sensitive to disturbed air.
- FIA technical chief Nikolas Tombazis said downforce loss in traffic rose from about 20% to as much as 30%, with 2026 designs aiming for roughly 10%.
- Pirelli’s 2025 tyres were notably wear‑resistant, prompting fewer pit stops and many one‑stop races that shrank pace gaps and lowered incident rates.
- Drivers, including Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen, criticized the cars for harsh ride and reduced driving enjoyment despite Verstappen’s dominance.
- As concepts converged, McLaren sealed the 2025 constructors’ title with seven races to spare, and rulemakers pursued changes including higher‑degradation tyres, a deferred two‑stop mandate to 2027, and an expanded sprint slate.