Meeting at the F1 Commission, the FIA and the teams validated a series of changes for the 2025 and 2026 seasons.
The fifth meeting of the F1 Commission of the year 2024 took place yesterday in Geneva, Switzerland, at the offices of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA).
Chaired by Nikolas Tombazis, FIA single-seater director, and Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1, this meeting made it possible to validate several key measures with a view to the 2025 and 2026 seasons. Here are the main points discussed.
Technical adaptations for 2025: cooling for pilots
One of the major aspects discussed during this meeting concerns technical adjustments for the 2025 season. Faced with the risks of increased heat during certain races, the FIA approved the introduction of a cooling kit for drivers.
This system will be activated when the temperature is deemed critical, thus ensuring better safety and increased comfort for pilots. This decision follows promising tests carried out in recent months, reinforcing the FIA's desire to improve racing conditions.
New guidelines for grid management
Following the debates sparked by the recent Brazilian Grand Prix in São Paulo, the F1 Commission has decided to introduce a revised protocol for grid management in the event of a car being withdrawn by a team. This measure aims to avoid potential imbalances on the starting line and to ensure better fluidity in the running of the races.
A sprint race project for beginners in 2026
The idea of a sprint race specially dedicated to beginners continues to appeal to the FIA and the teams. Although no precise date has yet been set, the Commission has confirmed its intention to study this concept for possible implementation in 2026. This format could offer young drivers a unique opportunity to compete in real conditions. without the constraints of a classic Grand Prix.
Sustainability Initiatives: Expanded Budget
The Commission also voted in favor of excluding costs related to sustainability initiatives from the budget cap for 2025. The decision should encourage teams to invest more in green projects without compromising their performance budgets.
Towards an inclusive and stricter regulation in 2026
Looking ahead to 2026, the FIA is continuing to draft strengthened and more inclusive regulations. Section A, which establishes the basis for future rules, is expected to be ready for the first meeting of the World Motor Sport Council in 2025. Section B will incorporate gender-neutral language to promote fair representation.
On the technical side, section C, dedicated to the Technical Regulations, is progressing well, and should be finalized for the next World Council, ensuring a balance between performance and security. Finally, section D, which concerns the Financial Regulations, will introduce measures reinforcing confidentiality during investigations, a point considered crucial by the teams and the FIA.
The discussions held during this meeting thus underline the FIA's desire to prepare a more secure, sustainable and inclusive Formula 1. These strategic decisions lay the foundations for an ambitious future for the discipline, in line with the growing expectations of the public and those involved in sport.
