Formula 1 is gunning for a radical weight loss program, with the FIA aiming to drag car mass back under 700kg for the first time since 2016. As The Race reports, this ambitious target is a core pillar of the sport's next rules era alongside a shift to V8 engines.
Right now, the minimum weight sits at a hefty 768kg, though the incoming 'nimble concept' for 2026 is set to shave off 30kg from the 2022-2025 cycle. Pushing another 80kg out of the machine sounds wild, but FIA single-seater director Nikolas Tombazis insists it is well within reach. The governing body's analysis reveals that out of the 200kg gained over the last 20 years, only 40kg went directly toward safety upgrades like the halo and stronger chassis sides. That leaves plenty of breathing room to slim these machines down while keeping drivers safe.
The plan relies on three major fronts, starting with the power unit. Even though a main V8 block will be slightly larger than a V6, the FIA plans to drastically cut turbo pressures, shrink the turbocharger itself, and strip out the complex 'spaghetti' of inlet and exhaust ducts. Smaller electrical elements down the line, specifically a reduced battery and MGU-K for 2031, will also create a lighter installation that can fit neatly on the side of the engine. Furthermore, car dimensions could shrink, and wheel rims are expected to drop below the current 18-inch size introduced in 2022—a change that originally added about 25kg of tyre weight.
From there, a virtuous circle takes over. Lighter machines require less robust components and heavy aerodynamic parts, meaning cars could be about two and a half to three seconds faster purely through weight loss. Tombazis explained that this surplus pace allows the FIA to dial back aerodynamics, reduce loads, and help tyres behave better for the exact same lap time. Adding it all up on the shopping list, the FIA believes they can land comfortably below 700kg, even accounting for the expected kickback and compromises from teams.
That drive for lightness briefly dragged up the contentious topic of refuelling earlier this year. Because V8 engines could require carrying 20kg to 25kg more fuel, fears arose that the gains from lighter cars would vanish. However, teams hate refuelling for its negative impact on the spectacle, costs, and safety, and Tombazis confirmed the FIA is equally unenthusiastic. Keeping a trimmed-down turbo alongside the V8 ensures fuel consumption increases remain manageable, meaning refuelling can be put firmly to bed.
Consultations with teams, car manufacturers, and drivers are currently underway to lock in this regulatory era by 2031 at the latest. FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem acknowledged that competitors will always complain, but stressed the importance of listening to them. Ben Sulayem hopes to secure an agreement before the end of this year, which could potentially open the door to bring the regulation switch forward to 2030.
