What is the biggest change coming to Formula 1?

Formula 1 is preparing for its biggest rule changes in history, set to be implemented for the 2026 season.

Which Mercedes engine era is ending?

The engine era that powered Mercedes to eight consecutive Constructors' Championships between 2014 and 2021 is concluding.

What are F1 teams doing during the off-season?

While drivers are on break, F1 teams are intensely working on designing new cars and power units to comply with the significant 2026 rule changes.

Home / Sports / F1 Factories Gear Up for 2026 Revolution

F1 Factories Gear Up for 2026 Revolution

11 Feb

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Summary

Formula 1 faces its biggest rule change in history for 2026.
Mercedes celebrates the end of an engine era that powered them to championships.
Drivers are unwinding while teams work intensely on new car designs and power units.

F1 Factories Gear Up for 2026 Revolution

Formula 1 teams are deep in preparation for a revolutionary 2026 season, driven by the most substantial rule changes the sport has ever encountered. At Mercedes High Performance Powertrains in Brixworth, a special celebration marked the conclusion of an engine cycle that underpinned eight consecutive Constructors' Championships from 2014 to 2021. This marks a significant transition for engine suppliers.

Meanwhile, at Mercedes' Brackley base, Technical Director James Allison is overseeing the development of the entirely new car, a project he describes as the biggest in F1 history. While drivers are enjoying their off-season, with Kimi Antonelli visiting family in Italy and Ollie Bearman holidaying in the Maldives before Christmas in Monaco, the focus remains firmly on the future back at the factories.

Collaborative efforts are key, as seen with the Haas team where Laura Muller, F1's first female race engineer, has completed her debut season on the pitwall. The teams are working diligently to adapt to the new regulations. Valtteri Bottas is also preparing for his next chapter with the Cadillac Formula 1 team in South Australia, anticipating pre-season testing and the opening race.