Several topics discussed at latest F1 Commission meeting with ‘significant progress’ made over 2026 regulations

The Formula 1 Commission gathered on Wednesday, with a host of matters covering the 2025 and 2026 regulations being discussed in a meeting chaired by FIA Single-Seater Director Nikolas Tombazis and F1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali.

Assembling for the fifth time this year at the FIA offices in Geneva, Switzerland, the commission initially ticked off a series of 2025 items related to technical matters, sporting matters and financial regulations matters.

On the technical side, they approved a range of technical changes for the 2025 season including the introduction of a driver cooling kit when heat hazard gets declared – following on from “encouraging” test results.

Meanwhile, building on sporting discussions prompted by the recent Sao Paulo Grand Prix weekend, the commission has confirmed a new protocol for closing up the grid when a team withdraws a car.

ZANDVOORT, NETHERLANDS - AUGUST 25: Stefano Domenicali, CEO of the Formula One Group, walks on the — F1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali chaired the meeting along with FIA Single-Seater Director Nikolas Tombazis

The rookie Sprint race initiative, previously mentioned as a possible 2024 post-season event, was also revisited, with the commission “remaining interested” in the concept and set to consider it further in 2025 with the aim of holding such an encounter in 2026.

As for financial regulations matters, the group approved further measures to expand the exclusion of sustainability initiative costs from the financial regulations for 2025.

Looking toward 2026, and the sport’s all-new ruleset, the regulatory drafting process has “progressed significantly”.

Designed to establish a cohesive framework for all subsequent sections, Section A is expected to be presented at the first World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) meeting of 2025.

FIA flags are seen during Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2022 at Yas Marina Circuit on November 20, — It marked the fifth time the F1 Commission had gathered for discussions in 2024

In Section B, revisions to the Sporting Regulations will mean that gender-neutral language is incorporated, highlighting the FIA’s commitment to inclusivity across the board.

The commission has also been updated on the progresses made with the teams and the Technical Regulations, coming under Section C, which should reach completion in time for the next WMSC – with the overarching objectives in terms of starting level of performance “likely to be achieved”.

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Regarding the Financial Regulations, or Section D, measures to strengthen confidentiality provisions during investigations and other procedural matters were discussed.

As usual, all regulatory changes are subject to approval by the WMSC.