Formula 1 confirms major decision: races will be shorter from 2027

During the third meeting of the 2026 Formula 1 Commission, the FIA and the teams further defined the regulations for 2027. One of the most significant changes concerns the length of the Grands Prix.

Due to changes to the power units and the way fuel is used, the maximum race distance will be cut by fifteen kilometers from 2027. In practice, this means a Grand Prix will typically be two to three laps shorter.

The fact that races would be shortened was first reported earlier by GPblog.

This does not mean a completely new race format. The Grand Prix will still be run according to the same principle, but the number of laps will be slightly lower at many circuits.

The FIA and the teams have also decided to adjust the rules regarding the maximum duration of a Grand Prix. Currently, a race, including interruptions, may last a maximum of three hours.

From 2027, that limit will be removed. In its place, there will be a fixed end time for race activities. The maximum actual racing time of two hours will remain.

According to the FIA, the change is intended to allow more flexibility to complete the race as fully as possible in the event of an interruption, for example due to heavy rain.

There will also be more flexibility during free practice when a session is halted due to an incident or other circumstances.

The Formula 1 Commission has also decided to scrap gearbox homologation for 2027. As a result, manufacturers will have more freedom in developing these components.

The decisions still need to be formally approved by the World Motor Sport Council.