The teams want to modify the 2026 F1 regulations before they are ratified by the FIA

Formula 1 team leaders will meet at the Canadian Grand Prix to discuss their concerns about the new technical rules for 2026. This discussion follows the release by the FIA of conceptual images and general ideas of the 2026 aero and engine regulations. Concerns have quickly emerged from drivers, fans, and also teams.

After an online meeting of the FIA Technical Advisory Committee, certain issues were brought to light. Sources indicate that team bosses have asked for the 2026 rules issue to be central to the meeting scheduled for Saturday morning in Montreal. This meeting is part of the regular meetings with the CEO of F1, Stefano Domenicali, and other key stakeholders to address the current topics in the paddock.

Some teams are concerned that the FIA is moving forward with rules that will not work as intended. This pertains especially to the aerodynamic concept, with teams suggesting that the new cars could lack performance due to a deficit in aerodynamic downforce and frequent battery failures.

The planned weight reduction is another source of concern. The goal is to reach 30 kg less on the scale, despite a likely increase in battery size. Teams fear not being able to achieve this goal and having to invest substantial sums for meager gains.

The teams also want more details on the plans for the active aero, with the FIA mentioning a two-setting system – with Z mode wings for high downforce and X mode to generate low drag on straight lines.

The deadlines imposed by the FIA.

Concerns about the regulations have been present for some time, but the publication of the plans by the FIA this week has brought the issue to the forefront. The actions of the FIA have shown teams that many decisions for 2026 have already been made, and there is no turning back in the aim to finalize the regulations by the end of the month, before changes become too complicated.

According to the International Sporting Code of the FIA, any regulation change that has a substantial impact on the technical design of the Car and/or performance balance must be published on June 30, one and a half years before it comes into effect. After this period, revisions require the support of competitors, which could be problematic as not all teams agree on the actions to be taken.

Some teams advocate delaying the publication of the rules until October to give the FIA more time to adjust them. This approach is logical because teams cannot work on the aerodynamic elements of the cars until January of next year. However, it appears that one team has blocked this proposal, insisting on meeting the June deadline.

Article 18.2.4 of the International Sporting Code stipulates that a shorter notice period for the publication of the rules than the June 30 deadline is only possible with the unanimous agreement of the teams, which does not seem to be under consideration. However, a source suggested that the FIA could still act with the support of the majority of the teams for a publication in October if it deems that there are valid reasons.

The rules state: “In exceptional circumstances, and if the FIA considers that the change in question is essential for the safeguarding of the Championship, cup, trophy, challenge or series concerned, the agreement of the majority of the Competitors regularly engaged shall suffice.”

The FIA indicated in its presentation documents on Thursday that the rules should be ratified by the World Motor Sport Council on June 28.