Formula One finalises immediate rule tweaks for the Miami Grand Prix after drivers, led by Max Verstappen, criticised new hybrid regulations as detrimental to racing.
FORMULA One chiefs have unanimously agreed to immediate rule changes following severe criticism from drivers and fans over new technical regulations introduced this season.
The changes, finalised after an online meeting between F1, the FIA, and team principals, are set to be implemented for the Miami Grand Prix on May 3.
Four-time world champion Max Verstappen had called the new style of racing “a joke” after the Chinese Grand Prix. He hinted he would take a break from F1 in 2027 unless changes were made.
Other drivers joined the criticism, while fans argued the changes had detracted from the spectator experience.
The new rules created a combination of combustion and electrical power, forcing drivers to carefully manage battery usage. This effectively slowed cars on qualifying laps, while a boost button was introduced to aid overtaking.
Key adjustments include reducing energy harvesting from eight to seven megajoules to help charge the battery. The hybrid power unit’s output will also be increased from 250kw to 350kw.
These modifications are designed to allow drivers to push at full speed for longer during qualifying sessions.
Another change targets the overtake boost button following British driver Ollie Bearman’s high-speed crash in Japan. The incident was partly attributed to the significant difference in closing speeds created by the system.
The FIA stated the boost button will now be capped at 150kw, “limiting sudden performance differentials”.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff cautioned against sweeping changes before the meeting. His drivers, Kimi Antonelli and George Russell, have made a strong start to the season.
“We all share the same objectives,” Wolff said. “It’s how can we improve the product, make it out-and-out racing, and look at what can improve in terms of safety, but act with a scalpel and not with a baseball bat.”
He emphasised the need to evolve carefully after only three races, learning from past erratic decisions. Wolff stressed the importance of protecting the sport for its global fanbase.
Further discussions are scheduled to take place after the Miami Grand Prix.