Formula 1 could undergo a complete overhaul in the upcoming technical regulations. Although the new legislation has just come into effect, the FIA and the Formula 1 teams are already negotiating the new rules expected to take effect in 2030, and an unexpected proposal has been tabled: the return of refuelling.
The FIA wants Formula 1 cars to refuel during the race with a single objective: drastically reduce the weight of the single-seaters. Negotiations are on the right track, and considering that the return to V8 engines is also on the table with very little electric components, we may be facing a radical shift for the category.
Goal: cars that weigh under 700 kilograms
This year 2026 is crucial for the future of Formula 1. Before we pop the champagne
the teams and the FIA must reach an agreement on what the future Formula 1 will look like, so they can immediately start working on it. And everything that is leaking sounds very promising. The latest development would be the return of refuelling.
According to Motorsport, the negotiations include bringing back in-race fuel top-ups. A return of refuelling that would be tied to a commitment to make Formula 1 cars lighter. Specifically, the objective would be to drop below 700 kilos. They are currently at 768.
With pit stops, the tanks could be smaller, reducing weight, as well as offering more complex strategies and less need for fuel management. Fuel refuelling has been banned in Formula 1 since 2009, theoretically for safety reasons, although there is suspicion of an aesthetic component.
What seems quite certain already is that the new Formula 1 engines will be V8, probably 2.4 liters, and that the electric component will be minimal. In fact, there is talk that they will only have a small KERS to aid overtaking. Another topic under discussion is whether the new engines will be turbocharged.
The big debate is when the changes will be implemented. The FIA could do it in 2031 without needing to consult anyone, but that sounds so distant that the federation president Mohammed ben Sulayem has already expressed his desire to bring it forward to 2030 or even 2029, something for which he would need to convince the teams and the FOM.
We will see if the parties reach a definitive agreement that recaptures the essence of Formula 1 after too many years of shooting in the dark.
Images | Ferrari, McLaren
