<p>The 2026 Formula One season is days away from the start as the teams gear up for the final round of testing before entering the championships. New season, new permutations and new rules will be on the agenda as teams and drivers get ready to give their best shot in the upcoming season. However, unlike the previous seasons, the Formula One 2026 season will offer new thrills with new rules set to take centre stage. Here’s a detailed look at new norms, rule changes and other key changes in the 2026 Formula One season.</p><h2><strong>Active Aero to replace DRS</strong></h2><p>Well, the upcoming season, starting with the Australian Grand Prix on March 8, will feature a new feature - Active Aero. The new feature will all but eliminate the Drag Reduction System (DRS) in its existing form. Active Aero will allow cars to adjust the angle of both their front and rear wing elements depending on where they are on the track.</p><h2><strong>What is low-drag mode?</strong></h2><p>In the corners, the flaps stay shut in their default position to maintain grip. On designated straights, drivers can activate low-drag mode, which opens the flaps and flattens the wings, reducing drag and boosting top speed. This is available to every driver, on every lap.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185"><strong>Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Overtake Mode</strong></h2><p>With the implementation of active mode, the DRS will be virtually non-existence and the rear wing flaps can be opened on every designated straight without the need to be within one second of the car in front. However, being inside one second of your rival does still bring benefits in the form of Overtake Mode.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The mode is just for attack and is triggered when they’re within one second of the car in front. That gives them access to extra electrical energy, which they can use to deploy to overtake or pressure the driver ahead at a single detection point.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691"><strong>From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Will there be a button to operate Overtake Mode?</strong></h2><p>Yes, there will be a feature to operate the Overtake Mode at one go called the Boost button. Drivers can continue to use it in defence as well as overtaking at any point around the lap, providing they have enough charge in their battery, of course. Drivers may use it all at once or spread across the lap, depending on when they have the best chance to attack or where they are most vulnerable.</p><h2><strong>New battery charging system</strong></h2><p>Working with their race engineer, drivers can select from a range of different modes to recharge their battery, from braking and engine energy. That means they have three tools they can use tactically when in the heat of battle.</p>

Unlike the previous seasons, the Formula One 2026 season will offer new thrills with new rules set to take centre stage. Here’s a detailed look at new norms, rule changes and other key changes in the 2026 Formula One season.

The 2026 Formula One season is days away from the start as the teams gear up for the final round of testing before entering the championships. New season, new permutations and new rules will be on the agenda as teams and drivers get ready to give their best shot in the upcoming season. However, unlike the previous seasons, the Formula One 2026 season will offer new thrills with new rules set to take centre stage. Here’s a detailed look at new norms, rule changes and other key changes in the 2026 Formula One season. Active Aero to replace DRS Well, the upcoming season, starting with the Australian Grand Prix on March 8, will feature a new feature - Active Aero. The new feature will all but eliminate the Drag Reduction System (DRS) in its existing form. Active Aero will allow cars to adjust the angle of both their front and rear wing elements depending on where they are on the track. What is low-drag mode? In the corners, the flaps stay shut in their default position to maintain grip. On designated straights, drivers can activate low-drag mode, which opens the flaps and flattens the wings, reducing drag and boosting top speed. This is available to every driver, on every lap. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli Overtake Mode With the implementation of active mode, the DRS will be virtually non-existence and the rear wing flaps can be opened on every designated straight without the need to be within one second of the car in front. However, being inside one second of your rival does still bring benefits in the form of Overtake Mode. The mode is just for attack and is triggered when they’re within one second of the car in front. That gives them access to extra electrical energy, which they can use to deploy to overtake or pressure the driver ahead at a single detection point. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds Will there be a button to operate Overtake Mode? Yes, there will be a feature to operate the Overtake Mode at one go called the Boost button. Drivers can continue to use it in defence as well as overtaking at any point around the lap, providing they have enough charge in their battery, of course. Drivers may use it all at once or spread across the lap, depending on when they have the best chance to attack or where they are most vulnerable. New battery charging system Working with their race engineer, drivers can select from a range of different modes to recharge their battery, from braking and engine energy. That means they have three tools they can use tactically when in the heat of battle.

<p>Unlike the previous seasons, the Formula One 2026 season will offer new thrills with new rules set to take centre stage. Here’s a detailed look at new norms, rule changes and other key changes in the 2026 Formula One season.</p>

Formula One: What is active aero, low-drag mode and why upcoming season is different from previous editions

<p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Formula One season will raise its curtain on March 8 as top teams will compete for the prestigious title. However, before the engines crank up, eight-time World Constructors' Championship winners Mercedes have been embroiled in a controversy surrounding the norms of operation of the engine. The extent of the controversy is now at its peak with FIA (Formula One’s governing body) stepping in and ordering Mercedes to change their controversial engine. So what is the controversy and why Mercedes are in the news as WION explains takes a deep look.</p><h2><strong>What is the controversy?</strong></h2><p>Ahead of the 2026 F1 season, a new set of regulations have been introduced, which includes a transformation in engines. Staying with the same, all teams participating in the 2026 F1 season have made necessary changes to their engines, including Mercedes; however, they have found a loophole to improve the performance of their engine. This loophole has angered other teams on the grid, provoking them to launch a complaint.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The loophole could prove beneficial for the teams to improve their performance during the race. The results from last week’s testing in Bahrain clearly showed Mercedes at a distinct advantage, raising further concerns among other teams.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185"><strong>Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</strong></a></p><h2><strong>What is the loophole?</strong></h2><p>Mercedes have dodged a new regulation relating to the combustion ratio between the largest and smallest volumes in the cylinder of the engine. It has been claimed that the engine only complies with this limit during specific static tests at ambient temperature, which is how the FIA checks that the cars are legal, but that they could actually achieve a higher combustion ratio while running at higher temperatures.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Mercedes have allegedly managed to 'exploit the fuel compression limit', which could give them a huge advantage of 0.4 seconds per lap. Previously, the fuel compression ratio had been set at 18:1, and it has been reduced to 16:1 ahead of 2026.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>It has been claimed that Mercedes may have found a way to effectively run the fuel compression at 18:1 on track, but still comply with the rules when the cars are stationary and checked by the sport's governing body, the FIA.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691"><strong>From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</strong></a></p><h2><strong>What is the latest development?</strong></h2><p>In a statement released on the Formula One website, the F1 Power Unit Advisory Committee has confirmed that they have submitted a proposal that would require engines to meet this limit also during operating temperature.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Over recent weeks and months, the FIA and the power unit manufacturers have collaboratively developed a methodology to quantify how the compression ratio changes from ambient to operating conditions," read the statement.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Following validation of this approach, a proposal has been submitted whereby, from August 1, 2026, compliance with the compression ratio limit must be demonstrated not only at ambient conditions, but also at a representative operating temperature of 130°C.</p><p>"The vote has been submitted to the power unit manufacturers, and its outcome is expected within the next 10 days and will be communicated in due course."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This slight loophole has given Mercedes an advantage during the main race, which could see them being the team to beat in the 2026 F1 season.</p>

Ahead of the 2026 F1 season, a new set of regulations have been introduced, which includes a transformation in engines. Staying with the same, all teams participating have made necessary changes to their engines, including Mercedes; however, they have found a loophole. 

The Formula One season will raise its curtain on March 8 as top teams will compete for the prestigious title. However, before the engines crank up, eight-time World Constructors' Championship winners Mercedes have been embroiled in a controversy surrounding the norms of operation of the engine. The extent of the controversy is now at its peak with FIA (Formula One’s governing body) stepping in and ordering Mercedes to change their controversial engine. So what is the controversy and why Mercedes are in the news as WION explains takes a deep look. What is the controversy? Ahead of the 2026 F1 season, a new set of regulations have been introduced, which includes a transformation in engines. Staying with the same, all teams participating in the 2026 F1 season have made necessary changes to their engines, including Mercedes; however, they have found a loophole to improve the performance of their engine. This loophole has angered other teams on the grid, provoking them to launch a complaint. The loophole could prove beneficial for the teams to improve their performance during the race. The results from last week’s testing in Bahrain clearly showed Mercedes at a distinct advantage, raising further concerns among other teams. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli What is the loophole? Mercedes have dodged a new regulation relating to the combustion ratio between the largest and smallest volumes in the cylinder of the engine. It has been claimed that the engine only complies with this limit during specific static tests at ambient temperature, which is how the FIA checks that the cars are legal, but that they could actually achieve a higher combustion ratio while running at higher temperatures. Mercedes have allegedly managed to 'exploit the fuel compression limit', which could give them a huge advantage of 0.4 seconds per lap. Previously, the fuel compression ratio had been set at 18:1, and it has been reduced to 16:1 ahead of 2026. It has been claimed that Mercedes may have found a way to effectively run the fuel compression at 18:1 on track, but still comply with the rules when the cars are stationary and checked by the sport's governing body, the FIA. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds What is the latest development? In a statement released on the Formula One website, the F1 Power Unit Advisory Committee has confirmed that they have submitted a proposal that would require engines to meet this limit also during operating temperature. "Over recent weeks and months, the FIA and the power unit manufacturers have collaboratively developed a methodology to quantify how the compression ratio changes from ambient to operating conditions," read the statement. "Following validation of this approach, a proposal has been submitted whereby, from August 1, 2026, compliance with the compression ratio limit must be demonstrated not only at ambient conditions, but also at a representative operating temperature of 130°C. "The vote has been submitted to the power unit manufacturers, and its outcome is expected within the next 10 days and will be communicated in due course." This slight loophole has given Mercedes an advantage during the main race, which could see them being the team to beat in the 2026 F1 season.

<p>Ahead of the 2026 F1 season, a new set of regulations have been introduced, which includes a transformation in engines. Staying with the same, all teams participating have made necessary changes to their engines, including Mercedes; however, they have found a loophole.&nbsp;</p>

Explained: Why Mercedes have landed in trouble and what is the compression ratio issue ahead of 2026 F1 season

<p>After a final-day flourish in the Formula One 2025 season, the new season will be on the horizon as teams and drivers get ready to sprint around the world. In an extended team version, Cadillac will be new to the roster as traditional rivals prepare to compete. Eyes will be on Mercedes, Ferrari and other teams in the Constructors Championship while Lando Norris, Max Verstappen, Charles Leclerc and others will bid for the Driver’s Championship. Ahead of the new season, here is everything you need to know, including races, sprints, and other key details.</p><h2><strong>When does the 2026 F1 season start?</strong></h2><p>The Bahrain International Circuit will host a total of six days of pre-season testing, split between two three-day tests. Testing 1 runs 11-13 February, before Testing 2 takes place a week later on 18-20 February.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The 2026 Formula 1 season begins in earnest with the Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park in Melbourne on (6-8 March).</p><h2><strong>When does the 2026 F1 season finish?</strong></h2><p>The 2026 Formula 1 season concludes with a triple header, with the Las Vegas Grand Prix (19-21 November), Qatar Grand Prix (27-29 November) and Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (4-6 December) wrapping up the year.</p><h2><strong>2026 F1 calendar</strong></h2><figure class="table"><table><thead><tr><th><strong>Date</strong></th><th><strong>Country</strong></th><th><strong>Venue</strong></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>March 6-8</td><td>Australia</td><td>Melbourne</td></tr><tr><td>March 13-15</td><td>China</td><td>Shanghai (Sprint)</td></tr><tr><td>March 27-29</td><td>Japan</td><td>Suzuka</td></tr><tr><td>April 10-12</td><td>Bahrain</td><td>Sakhir</td></tr><tr><td>April 17-19</td><td>Saudi Arabia</td><td>Jeddah</td></tr><tr><td>May 1-3</td><td>USA</td><td>Miami (Sprint)</td></tr><tr><td>May 22-24</td><td>Canada</td><td>Montreal (Sprint)</td></tr><tr><td>June 5-7</td><td>Monaco</td><td>Monaco</td></tr><tr><td>June 12-14</td><td>Spain</td><td>Barcelona-Catalunya</td></tr><tr><td>June 26-28</td><td>Austria</td><td>Spielberg</td></tr><tr><td>July 3-5</td><td>Great Britain</td><td>Silverstone (Sprint)</td></tr><tr><td>July 17-19</td><td>Belgium</td><td>Spa-Francorchamps</td></tr><tr><td>July 24-26</td><td>Hungary</td><td>Budapest</td></tr><tr><td>August 21-23</td><td>Netherlands</td><td>Zandvoort (Sprint)</td></tr><tr><td>September 4-6</td><td>Italy</td><td>Monza</td></tr><tr><td>September 11-13</td><td>Spain</td><td>Madrid*</td></tr><tr><td>September 24-26</td><td>Azerbaijan</td><td>Baku</td></tr><tr><td>October 9-11</td><td>Singapore</td><td>Singapore (Sprint)</td></tr><tr><td>October 23-25</td><td>USA</td><td>Austin</td></tr><tr><td>October 30 - November 1</td><td>Mexico</td><td>Mexico City</td></tr><tr><td>November 6-8</td><td>Brazil</td><td>Sao Paulo</td></tr><tr><td>November 19-21</td><td>USA</td><td>Las Vegas</td></tr><tr><td>November 27-29</td><td>Qatar</td><td>Lusail</td></tr><tr><td>December 4-6</td><td>Abu Dhabi</td><td>Yas Marina</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><h2><strong>How many races are on the 2026 F1 calendar?</strong></h2><p>The 2026 Formula 1 calendar features 24 Grand Prix weekends, including six F1 Sprint races, taking place around the world from March through December.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A total of 21 countries across five continents are on the schedule. Classic tracks such as Silverstone, Spa-Francorchamps and Suzuka, combined with more recent additions including Las Vegas, Miami and Saudi Arabia, give an exciting and varied selection of circuits that offers plenty to look forward to.</p><h2><strong>How many F1 Sprint events are there in 2026?</strong></h2><p>Six circuits will host F1 Sprint weekends in 2026 – the fifth season of the Sprint format.</p><p>The exciting 2025 roster sees China and Miami on the Sprint line-up for a second consecutive year, joining Austin and Qatar, which both return to host their third Sprint events. Belgium returns to the line-up for the first time since 2023, while Brazil continues its run of hosting a Sprint every year since the format began in 2021.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

The 2026 Formula 1 season concludes with a triple header, with the Las Vegas Grand Prix (19-21 November), Qatar Grand Prix (27-29 November) and Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (4-6 December) wrapping up the year.

After a final-day flourish in the Formula One 2025 season, the new season will be on the horizon as teams and drivers get ready to sprint around the world. In an extended team version, Cadillac will be new to the roster as traditional rivals prepare to compete. Eyes will be on Mercedes, Ferrari and other teams in the Constructors Championship while Lando Norris, Max Verstappen, Charles Leclerc and others will bid for the Driver’s Championship. Ahead of the new season, here is everything you need to know, including races, sprints, and other key details. When does the 2026 F1 season start? The Bahrain International Circuit will host a total of six days of pre-season testing, split between two three-day tests. Testing 1 runs 11-13 February, before Testing 2 takes place a week later on 18-20 February. The 2026 Formula 1 season begins in earnest with the Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park in Melbourne on (6-8 March). When does the 2026 F1 season finish? The 2026 Formula 1 season concludes with a triple header, with the Las Vegas Grand Prix (19-21 November), Qatar Grand Prix (27-29 November) and Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (4-6 December) wrapping up the year. 2026 F1 calendar Date Country Venue March 6-8 Australia Melbourne March 13-15 China Shanghai (Sprint) March 27-29 Japan Suzuka April 10-12 Bahrain Sakhir April 17-19 Saudi Arabia Jeddah May 1-3 USA Miami (Sprint) May 22-24 Canada Montreal (Sprint) June 5-7 Monaco Monaco June 12-14 Spain Barcelona-Catalunya June 26-28 Austria Spielberg July 3-5 Great Britain Silverstone (Sprint) July 17-19 Belgium Spa-Francorchamps July 24-26 Hungary Budapest August 21-23 Netherlands Zandvoort (Sprint) September 4-6 Italy Monza September 11-13 Spain Madrid* September 24-26 Azerbaijan Baku October 9-11 Singapore Singapore (Sprint) October 23-25 USA Austin October 30 - November 1 Mexico Mexico City November 6-8 Brazil Sao Paulo November 19-21 USA Las Vegas November 27-29 Qatar Lusail December 4-6 Abu Dhabi Yas Marina How many races are on the 2026 F1 calendar? The 2026 Formula 1 calendar features 24 Grand Prix weekends, including six F1 Sprint races, taking place around the world from March through December. A total of 21 countries across five continents are on the schedule. Classic tracks such as Silverstone, Spa-Francorchamps and Suzuka, combined with more recent additions including Las Vegas, Miami and Saudi Arabia, give an exciting and varied selection of circuits that offers plenty to look forward to. How many F1 Sprint events are there in 2026? Six circuits will host F1 Sprint weekends in 2026 – the fifth season of the Sprint format. The exciting 2025 roster sees China and Miami on the Sprint line-up for a second consecutive year, joining Austin and Qatar, which both return to host their third Sprint events. Belgium returns to the line-up for the first time since 2023, while Brazil continues its run of hosting a Sprint every year since the format began in 2021.

<p>The 2026 Formula 1 season concludes with a triple header, with the Las Vegas Grand Prix (19-21 November), Qatar Grand Prix (27-29 November) and Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (4-6 December) wrapping up the year.</p>

Formula One 2026 season guide: All you need to know including races, calendar, sprint races and more

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Formula One: What is active aero, low-drag mode and why upcoming season is different from previous editions

Explained: Why Mercedes have landed in trouble ahead of 2026 F1 season

Formula One 2026 season guide: All you need to know including races and more