The 7 new rules to know before the start of the 2025 F1 season

1. Removal of the bonus point for the fastest lap

The bonus point awarded to the driver achieving the fastest lap is removed. This measure aims to simplify the points system but especially to prevent distorting the championship.

Indeed, it opened up the possibility for a driver who was not in the top 10 (and therefore had a lost race) to stop, put on soft tires, and thus take the point from another driver in the top 10. Being a subject of controversy, to quell the debates, the FIA decided to eliminate it.

The point for the fastest lap in the race was reinstated in 2019. It was only awarded to drivers scoring a point and could earn 24 points over the course of the season, almost as much as a Grand Prix victory.

2. New cooling systems for drivers

A cooling system for drivers becomes mandatory when the temperature exceeds 31°C on the weather radar. This measure aims to improve the comfort and safety of drivers under extreme heat conditions. The addition of this system involves increasing the weight limit of the cars (+2kg for practice, qualifying, and sprint qualifying, +5kg for races).

A Formula 1 engine produces a significant amount of heat while the driver’s seat has no air intake. Some drivers had experienced discomfort after their Grand Prix in Qatar, and the FIA decided to take action after hearing from the drivers. Temperatures in the cockpits had risen to over 70°C.

Currently, the only way to cool down during the race was to equip oneself with a vest filled with liquid nitrogen that diffused coolness for a few dozen minutes. However, this vest was not effective for the entire race (which can last 2 hours).

The new system will be more comprehensive. In addition to having added a small ventilation in the bucket seat, the cooling jacket will be connected with a tube to the single-seater, which will have a small cold generator continuously powered.

3. Restrictions on testing vintage cars (TPC)

New restrictions govern private testing with old cars (TPC). The number of test days is limited to 20 per year, with a maximum of 4 days and 1000 km for each driver. Furthermore, only one TPC car per team is allowed, and it must be at least two seasons old. This quota has been increased to better prepare for 2026.

4. More track time for beginners

The mandatory track time in FP1 for rookie drivers (less than two Grand Prix participated) is doubled. Each team will now have to run a rookie twice per car during the season, totaling four FP1 sessions. Until now, teams chose the circuits that had the least potential impact on the championship. This measure will obviously be at the expense of a regular driver but should perhaps make it easier to showcase the level of junior drivers who, despite certain titles won in junior series, struggle to break into F1.

5. Aerodynamic Restrictions

Stricter restrictions are governing the design of DRS (drag reduction system) and wing deflection. The goal is to limit the effects of a “mini-DRS,” meaning that the upper elements of a rear wing flatten at high speed to reduce drag. The aim is also to more precisely control aerodynamic performance. More rigorous tests will be conducted, particularly on the rear wing. Similarly, stricter limits on the maximum deflection of the front wing are yet to be approved and will be introduced starting from the ninth round (Barcelona).

6. Modifications of qualification classifications

The case of the São Paulo Grand Prix last year allowed the implementation of solutions in the event of qualifying cancellations. The regulations state that the starting grid for the race will be determined based on the drivers’ championship standings. The same applies if a Sprint qualifying session cannot take place. Clarifications have also been provided for cases where several drivers cannot set times in Q2 or Q3. For example, if two drivers start fast laps in Q3 but are unable to complete them due to a red flag or other incidents and do not set a time, they will be ranked in the order of who was fastest in Q2.

7. Tire tests for 2026 cars

The usual end-of-season tests in Abu Dhabi will include tire testing for the 2026 season. A “mule” car, adapted to the 2026 tire specifications, will be used. This will help prepare for the arrival of the new technical regulations and new tires. The tires will have a different size and specifications from those of the 2025 Pirelli tires, allowing teams to use either their 2025 car or any car from the previous four years.

In parallel, the young driver tests which also take place in Abu Dhabi at the end of the season will be maintained for drivers who have participated in a maximum of two F1 races.