FIA unveils Manual Override Mode for Formula 1’s 2026 overhaul

The Formula 1 landscape will undergo a technical revolution in 2026, replacing the DRS with the Manual Override Mode (MOM), an active aerodynamics system designed to enhance overtaking while preserving drivers’ ability to defend their positions. Nikolas Tombazis, FIA’s single-seater director, detailed that the system, paired with X and Z modes, aims to make races more dynamic and sustainable, featuring hybrid power units and cars 30 kg lighter. Set to debut across global circuits, the changes address the “dirty air” issue, boosting strategic overtaking opportunities. Teams are already testing the system in simulators to ensure competitive balance, responding to fans’ demand for closer racing.

The 2026 overhaul extends beyond aerodynamics, introducing power units with a 50/50 split between combustion and electric power, using 100% sustainable fuels. Cars will be smaller, more agile, and designed to reduce drag, making overtaking more feasible. The FIA’s goal is to create challenging yet achievable overtaking scenarios, delivering a more engaging spectacle for global audiences.

• Key changes for 2026:
  • DRS replaced by Manual Override Mode.
  • X Mode (low drag) and Z Mode (high downforce) for wings.
  • Cars 30 kg lighter with reduced dimensions.
  • 100% sustainable fuel and 350 kW electric power.

The system balances attack and defense, with the chasing car gaining a 350 kW electric boost up to 337 km/h, while the leader’s energy gradually reduces above 290 km/h.

Manual Override Mode in focus

The Manual Override Mode (MOM) is the centerpiece of the FIA’s 2026 vision. Unlike DRS, which relied on opening the rear wing in specific zones, MOM allows drivers to trigger a 350 kW electric boost when within 1 second of a rival. This boost, powered by the MGU-K, cuts off at 337 km/h, while the leading car’s energy drops above 290 km/h to level the playing field. Drivers must manage battery reserves strategically, as the boost depends on available energy, adding a layer of tactical depth. The FIA is calibrating usage limits per lap, similar to DRS detection zones, but with greater flexibility.

• MOM mechanics:
  • Manual activation within 1s of the car ahead.
  • 350 kW electric boost up to 337 km/h.
  • Leader’s energy reduction starts at 290 km/h.
  • Battery management for optimal timing. This setup reduces reliance on fixed zones, empowering drivers to rely on skill and strategy for overtaking.

Active aerodynamics: X and Z modes

Active aerodynamics will redefine F1 in 2026, with adjustable front and rear wings toggling between two configurations. X Mode minimizes drag on straights for higher speeds, while Z Mode maximizes downforce in corners for better grip. Drivers will switch modes multiple times per lap, adapting to track demands in real time. The reintroduction of an active front wing, briefly tested in 2009, ensures balance, as adjusting only the rear wing could destabilize the car. Jason Somerville, FIA’s aerodynamics chief, noted that simulator tests with teams confirmed the need for synchronized wing movements. A 55% drag reduction and 30% downforce cut also address “dirty air,” enabling closer racing in corners, a persistent F1 challenge.

• Aerodynamic features:
  • X Mode for low drag on straights.
  • Z Mode for high downforce in corners.
  • Active front and rear wings for balance.
  • Reduced “dirty air” for closer racing.

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Enhancing race dynamics

The MOM and active aerodynamics aim to elevate race quality by tackling “dirty air,” which disrupts trailing cars in corners. Flatter underfloors and less aggressive diffusers reduce ground-effect dependency, eliminating issues like the 2022 “porpoising.” This allows cars to follow closely, creating more overtaking opportunities.

• Race improvements:
  • Tighter racing in corners.
  • Strategy-driven overtaking.
  • Less predictable overtaking zones.
  • More dynamic and engaging races. Tombazis stressed that the system preserves F1’s competitive essence, prioritizing driver skill and team tactics. Simulator tests are refining the balance to ensure thrilling races.

Technical challenges for teams

The 2026 rules pose significant hurdles for teams, particularly in weight reduction. With power units increasing to 185 kg from 151 kg, teams must shave 64 kg from components like the chassis and gearbox to meet the 768 kg minimum weight. Christian Horner of Red Bull called this a “brutal” task under the cost cap, limiting investment in lightweight materials. The removal of the MGU-H introduces turbo lag, demanding innovative engineering solutions. The reliance on electric power also makes active aerodynamics critical, as high drag would drain batteries on straights.

• Key technical hurdles:
  • Cutting 64 kg from car components.
  • Managing turbo lag without MGU-H.
  • Optimizing battery for MOM usage.
  • Adapting to active wing systems. Teams mastering these challenges will gain a competitive edge in the new era.

Sustainability and innovation drive

Sustainability is a core focus, with 100% sustainable fuels derived from non-food biomass and waste aligning F1 with global environmental goals. The hybrid power unit, balancing combustion and electric power, boosts electric output from 120 kW to 350 kW, a nearly 300% increase. Smaller cars with a 200 mm shorter wheelbase and narrower tires enhance energy efficiency. These changes also position F1 as a testing ground for road-relevant technologies, like “drop-in” sustainable fuels.

• Sustainability highlights:
  • 100% sustainable fuel adoption.
  • 350 kW electric power output.
  • Smaller, lighter cars for efficiency.
  • Reduced ground-effect reliance.

Driver expectations

Pilots will play a pivotal role in adapting to the new rules. MOM and active aerodynamics demand quick decision-making, elevating the importance of driver skill. Switching between X and Z modes will be a differentiator, with split-second choices impacting lap times. Simulator data suggests that strategic drivers like Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton may excel, while younger talents like Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri could capitalize on the level playing field. The FIA anticipates more competitive races with less predictable outcomes.

Preparing for 2026

The FIA is collaborating with teams to refine the regulations, with simulator tests ongoing since 2024. Final rules will be set by mid-2025, though aerodynamic development is restricted until 2025. Jan Monchaux, FIA’s technical director, likened MOM to IndyCar’s “push-to-pass,” offering drivers flexibility in energy deployment. Teams face resource allocation challenges under the cost cap, balancing weight reduction and aerodynamic performance. Red Bull, for instance, is developing “three cars” to prepare for 2026’s demands.