Braking into 2026:Brembo Teases F1 Changes
Formula 1 teams are actively preparing for the 2026 season, when a new technical regulation will come into effect. While there is little public information about ongoing developments, The Race spoke with Andrea Algeri from Brembo the company that supplies braking systems to most teams on the grid.
According to Algeri, the design of the rear brakes will undergo significant changes in 2026, due to the more powerful hybrid power units. The electrical component is expected to provide up to 50% of the total power output, which affects how braking force is distributed.
Brembo works closely with teams to tailor their solutions to specific requests, although the reasoning behind those requests is not always fully disclosed. Algeri noted that rear brake components are becoming smaller in both diameter and thickness. This suggests that teams may be planning to rely less on rear-axle braking, or use it more selectively.
The new regulations specify only the maximum thickness for brake discs (34 mm) and minimum diameters:325–345 mm at the front and 260–280 mm at the rear. Additionally, each braking system must be capable of delivering at least 2500 Nm of braking force per wheel, without assistance from hybrid components.
Algeri also suggested that brake behavior will vary significantly from track to track. On slower circuits like Singapore, brakes will be used more frequently and intensely, whereas on faster tracks such as Silverstone, their use may be minimal. Brake temperature management becomes crucial, as less frequent use could lead to cooling, reducing effectiveness.
Brembo is drawing on its experience from Formula E, where a similar concept applies heavy reliance on energy recovery systems and reduced use of traditional braking. The engineering challenge for 2026 is substantial, with increased demands on materials, efficiency, and reliability.
