F1 MATHS: The new terms fans need to get used to in 2026

Ahead of Formula One’s major technical overhaul in 2026, the sport has outlined four terms fans need to get used to next year – including Overtake Mode, Recharge, Active Aero and Boost Mode.

Formula One will undergo its most extensive technical reset in decades when new chassis and power‑unit regulations come into force for the 2026 season. The changes, jointly developed by the FIA and the teams, aim to produce lighter, more agile cars while shifting the sport toward a more electric‑focused future.

The 2026 chassis rules introduce a significant reduction in size and weight. The wheelbase will shrink by 200mm to 3400mm, overall width will drop to 1900mm, and the floor will narrow by 150mm. Minimum weight will fall from 800kg to 770kg. The FIA says the goal is to make the cars more responsive and easier to race closely.

Downforce levels are expected to fall by 15–30% due to the removal of the current ground‑effect floor tunnels, while drag will be reduced by up to 40%. To compensate, the sport will introduce active aerodynamics for the first time. Movable front and rear wings will allow drivers to switch between high‑ and low‑downforce configurations depending on the section of track, replacing the Drag Reduction System.

Tyres will remain 18 inches, but both front and rear widths will be reduced — 25mm narrower at the front and 30mm at the rear — contributing to lower drag and overall mass.

The 2026 power‑unit regulations mark a major shift in Formula One’s hybrid philosophy. The MGU‑H will be removed, simplifying the system, while the MGU‑K’s output will increase from 120kW to 350kW. The result is a near 50/50 split between internal combustion and electric power.

All cars will run on advanced sustainable fuel, part of the sport’s broader push toward reduced environmental impact without sacrificing performance.

With more powerful energy recovery systems and more complex deployment strategies, drivers will take on a larger tactical role. Managing regeneration, battery usage, and power delivery will become a central part of racecraft, particularly in wheel‑to‑wheel situations.

To help explain these changes, Formula One has introduced a set of new terms intended to simplify on‑air commentary and fan understanding.

Overtake Mode – Allows drivers within one second of a rival to deploy additional electrical power to attempt a pass. It replaces DRS as the primary overtaking aid.

Boost Mode – A driver‑controlled burst of maximum hybrid power, usable anywhere on the lap for attack or defence.

Active Aero – Adjustable front and rear wing elements that switch between “Corner” and “Straight” modes to balance grip and efficiency.

Recharge – The process of recovering energy under braking, throttle lift, or partial‑power cornering to replenish the battery.

The FIA says the terminology and technical framework were developed with input from teams, engineers, and fan research groups, with the aim of making the regulations clearer and more accessible. The 2026 ruleset is expected to reshape the competitive landscape and place a renewed emphasis on driver skill and strategic decision‑making.