FIA announces a rule change in F1 after drivers shared their concerns in a statement
The FIA has announced some big changes to F1 engines that will take effect in the 2027 season.
There were already updates made before the 2026 season, with engines now split evenly between internal combustion and electric power. But these changes have caused some drivers to speak out. For example, Max Verstappen, a four-time world champion, said the new rules make F1 feel more like Formula E. He described it as less fun, “anti-racing,” and compared it to “playing Mario Kart.”
Lando Norris, the current world champion driving for McLaren, also said the power units aren’t working as they should. He mentioned that drivers don’t have enough control over the engine’s power during races. Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time champion, has been quieter but believes drivers should have had more say in the process.
Before the Miami Grand Prix last week, there were some tweaks made to the 2026 rules after talks between the FIA, teams, engine makers, and others. The main focus was on making things safer for drivers. It looks like more changes will come in 2027.
A recent online meeting with 11 teams, Formula One Management, and engine makers like Mercedes, Ferrari, Red Bull, Audi, and Honda agreed on a plan in principle.
The FIA said on Friday: “We reviewed the changes from the Miami Grand Prix, which improved safety and made races better. No big issues or safety concerns were found. We are still looking at more ways to improve safety at starts and in wet weather, with updates coming soon. We’re also working on better visual signals for the Canadian Grand Prix.”
The statement also said everyone agrees on making the sport safer and fairer. The plan for 2027 includes increasing the power from the internal combustion engine by about 50kW and reducing power from the energy recovery system by the same amount. More detailed talks will happen before the final decision.
These proposals come after several weeks of consultation with the FIA, teams, engine makers, and input from drivers. The next step is to present the refined rules for an official vote.
The 2026 rules were created through close teamwork between all the key groups, and these 2027 plans continue that spirit of working together.
F1 is back later this month, with the Canadian Grand Prix happening on May 24.