FIA enforces colourful F1 liveries from 2026 onwards

What will change for the bolides?

The FIA is introducing a new rule for 2026. Teams must now cover at least 55% of the car's surface with paint or stickers. That 55% applies when looking at the car from the side and top. Large bare surfaces with visible carbon are no longer allowed. The aim is simple: to make the cars more distinct from each other and make the field more visually interesting.

Why this measure?

Teams often used bare carbon in recent years. That saves weight. And saving weight is important. For the new rulebook, the minimum weight of cars will be reduced next year. As a result, some teams tried to make even more extreme weight savings. The new colour rule should put a brake on that, ensuring more appearance on the grid.

Other topics discussed

Rider numbers

The committee talked about fixed driver numbers, a system that has been in place since 2014. There is now agreement that drivers will be allowed to change numbers during their careers. The exact terms have yet to be worked out.

Aerodynamic test restrictions (ATR)

The ATR determines how many wind tunnel and CFD tests a team is allowed to do. Those limits depend on the position in the previous season's constructors' championship. The rules are being revised. The aim is to adapt F1 to modern processing and simulation, but without driving costs out of control.

Pit stop obligation and cooling systems

It was briefly discussed whether there should be a mandatory strategy with two pit stops. No decision was taken. This topic will be addressed again next year. Ideas for redesigning driver cooling systems were also brought in. These will be investigated further.

Motor usage and cost cap

No decision was taken on ambiguity around engine changes and the cost cap. One team had asked for clarification after a race where an engine was replaced. They want to know whether engine changes that lead to performance gains are within the cost ceiling. This point was not discussed now.

Key points at a glance

• From 2026, at least 55% of the bodywork must be painted or stickered.
• Goal: better visual recognition between cars.
• Rule stems partly from concerns about weight saving via bare carbon.
• Drivers may be allowed to change their permanent number during their career.
• ATR rules are adapted to modern simulation techniques, with cost monitoring.
• Mandatory two pit stops were discussed but not introduced; continuation in 2026.

The new rules show that regulation is not only about performance, but also about presentation and fairness. More details will follow after further elaboration and official publications.