Verstappen Calls for Drastic Formula 1 Weight Reduction in 2026 Regulations
As the draft 2026 Formula 1 regulations were unveiled ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal, Max Verstappen expressed his concerns that the planned 30kg weight reduction may not be sufficient to improve the racing spectacle. The Dutch driver believes that “at least 100-150kg” needs to be taken out of the cars to make them more agile and fun to drive.
The proposed regulations, aimed at enhancing the F1 experience, feature a 200mm shorter wheelbase and 100mm reduction in car width. However, Verstappen argues that more drastic measures are needed to achieve the desired result. “You need at least 100-150kg,” he told Motorsport.com. “At the moment with how everything is, for sure it’s not possible. But that is also to do with the engine, right? Engine and battery related – it’s very heavy and long, wide.“
Verstappen’s remarks highlight the challenges posed by the increased hybridisation of the 2026 power units, which will rely equally on internal combustion engines and electric components. This shift towards electrification will require more batteries, adding weight to the cars. Nonetheless, the FIA remains confident that the planned 30kg weight reduction is a “feasible target,” according to Single Seater Director Nikolas Tombazis.
“Safety added a lot of weight, which of course, is good but I’m sure that we can do things a little bit differently. It depends on the regulations that you write,” he said.
While the FIA’s target of a 30kg weight reduction may seem modest compared to Verstappen’s ambitious goal, it would still represent a significant step towards improving the racing experience. However, the Red Bull driver remains sceptical about the feasibility of achieving even the planned reduction, given that some teams are currently overweight under the current regulations. “It’s gonna be very tough with how everything is, but let’s see,” he said. “I mean, even now, some teams are overweight, right? So, to go even 30 kilos less – of course, I know that the dimensions change a little bit, but I’m not sure that 30 kilos will be the perfect scenario.“
As Formula 1 looks to the future, the debate surrounding weight reduction and its impact on the sport will continue to be a key topic of discussion. With the 2026 regulations set to shape the future of F1, Verstappen’s comments serve as a reminder of the importance of finding a balance between safety, performance, and weight reduction.
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