Formula 1 Agrees Sweeping Engine Changes for 2027 and 2028: What It Means

Formula 1 has approved significant power unit regulation changes for the 2027 and 2028 seasons after teams, manufacturers and the FIA reached an agreement aimed at improving racing, reducing energy-management concerns and making qualifying sessions more flat-out.

The changes, which were approved by a supermajority vote during a meeting of the F1 Commission ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix weekend, will now be submitted to the FIA World Motor Sport Council for formal ratification later this month.

Why F1 Is Changing the 2026 Engine Rules

The upcoming 2026 regulations were set to introduce a near 50-50 split between power generated by the internal combustion engine (ICE) and the electrical systems.

However, concerns were raised by teams and drivers that excessive reliance on battery power could create situations where cars lose significant performance once electrical energy is depleted, particularly on longer straights.

After weeks of discussions involving the FIA, Formula One Management and power unit manufacturers, a compromise has now been reached that gradually increases the contribution from the combustion engine.

New Power Unit Split for 2027 and 2028

For the 2027 season, Formula 1 cars will operate with a 58:42 power split between the internal combustion engine and the MGU-K electrical system.

The combustion engine output will increase from 400kW to 420kW, supported by a five percent increase in fuel flow.

A further adjustment will arrive in 2028, when the sport moves to a 60:40 split. The ICE output will rise again to 450kW, while fuel flow limits will increase by 13 percent compared to current figures.

On the electrical side, the maximum MGU-K output will reduce from 350kW to 300kW in 2027 and remain unchanged in 2028.

Meanwhile, energy harvesting capabilities will increase, rising from the current 350kW limit to 375kW in 2027 and 400kW in 2028.

FIA Explains Objective Behind Changes

According to the FIA, the revised package is designed to tackle concerns surrounding energy deployment and fuel energy flow while maintaining the racing spectacle expected from Formula 1.

"The proposed changes are intended to address issues related to energy management and fuel energy flow characteristics and make qualifying more flat-out while not impacting the positive and exciting racing generated by the new regulations," the FIA said in a statement.

The governing body added that the package introduces a phased rebalancing between the internal combustion engine and energy recovery systems across the two seasons, alongside greater flexibility in energy management.

Additional Sporting Measures Under Consideration

Alongside the power unit revisions, supporting measures relating to race operations, power unit supply conditions and financial regulations have also been included.

Reports suggest Formula 1 is evaluating operational changes such as limiting reconnaissance laps and potentially reducing race distances at certain venues to complement the new power unit framework.

Mohammed Ben Sulayem Welcomes Agreement

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem praised the collaborative effort between teams, manufacturers and Formula One Management in reaching a consensus.

"Formula 1 has always evolved to meet new challenges and seize new opportunities," Ben Sulayem said.

"These proposed changes reflect the collaborative work taking place across the sport to ensure the regulations continue to support exciting racing, technological innovation and long-term sustainability.

"The FIA has a responsibility to protect the future of the championship, and these refinements are part of that commitment."

He also thanked the FIA staff, teams, Formula One Group and power unit manufacturers for what he described as a "constructive approach" throughout the negotiations.

With formal approval expected from the World Motor Sport Council on June 23, Formula 1's next-generation engine regulations have taken another significant step towards implementation, while addressing one of the biggest concerns surrounding the sport's future power units.