No DRS, More Power:How Formula 1 Will Change in 2026
Formula 1 is preparing for major changes in 2026 and is already introducing a unified terminology for the new technical concepts. The era of DRS and MGU-H will come to an end, with an enhanced hybrid system featuring a more powerful MGU-K taking center stage.
The updated power unit will retain the 1.6-liter internal combustion engine, but the balance of power will shift: output from the combustion engine will be reduced to 400 kW, while the electric component will increase to 350 kW. Battery capacity will triple, allowing for a near-equal distribution of power between the two sources.
Boost Mode will serve as an instant attack and defense tool, enabling drivers to deploy maximum energy at any point on the lap.
Active Aero will allow on-the-fly adjustment of front and rear wing angles, switching between cornering and straight-line configurations.
Recharge will enable more aggressive energy recovery, including during braking, lift-off at the end of straights, and even through corners.
The key innovation will be Overtake Mode. If a driver is within one second of a rival at the detection point, they will receive an additional allocation of electrical energy for the following lap. At the same time, the leading car will see a reduction in available power at high speeds, while the chasing car will retain full electrical output a differential designed to make overtaking more achievable and more spectacular.
