Miami Grand Prix: Formula One Technical Changes Explained

With the Miami Grand Prix approaching, Formula One has approved a series of adjustments to its technical and sporting regulations.

Following concerns raised by drivers about safety and racing quality, recent meetings were held to discuss the state of F1 under this season's new rules.

The 2026 regulations update features new power units, with a near 50-50 split between internal combustion and electrical energy.

However, the changes have dramatically increased the complexity surrounding energy management, prompting some unforeseen results.

Formula One Rule Changes Ahead Of Miami Grand Prix

Qualifying

Qualifying has been the most affected part of the race weekend. Drivers complained that excessive energy management meant they were having to lift and coast on straights to recharge the battery and produce faster lap times.

This counterintuitive practice meant that pushing the car flat-out was actually slower than managing energy carefully.

As a result, energy harvesting limits have been reduced from 8MJ to 7MJ to prevent excessive lifting and coasting. Peak deployment has been increased from 250kW to 350kW, shortening recharge phases and reducing workload.

Races

Similar measures have been taken for races. The power of boost mode has been capped at +150kW, preventing large speed differentials such as the one seen during Oliver Bearman's crash in Japan.

MGU-K deployment has been reduced in some areas, with these measures aimed at balancing safety with overtaking opportunities.

Miami will also see a new race start system debuted, designed to detect unusually slow launches. When triggered, it will automatically deploy energy to ensure cars aren't left stranded on the track, as well as activating warning lights to reduce the risk of collisions.

Wet Weather

Finally, wet-weather rules have also been tweaked. Intermediate tyre blankets are now allowed to be hotter, improving grip.

Meanwhile, reduced energy deployment has been reduced in low-grip conditions, and rear light signals have been simplified to give better visibility.