FIA confirms shorter F1 races as 2027 rules take shape

The FIA has confirmed that Formula 1’s Grand Prix races will become slightly shorter in 2027, with the change forming part of a wider package of sporting and technical adjustments agreed by the F1 Commission in London on Monday.

The standard race distance is set to fall from 305km to 290km, although the measure still requires formal approval from the FIA World Motor Sport Council. At most venues, that reduction is expected to amount to roughly three laps.

The move is directly linked to next year’s revised power unit regulations, which will shift more of the performance burden back towards the internal combustion engine while reducing the contribution from electric power.

Shorter races, bigger combustion engines

Under the 2027 rules, ICE output will rise to 420kW while the MGU-K will be capped at 300kW, with 350kW remaining available in overtake mode. Fuel flow to the combustion engine will also increase by five percent to support the additional power.

Rather than enlarge fuel tanks to accommodate the higher fuel consumption, the FIA and Formula 1 have opted to trim race distances. The objective is to avoid teams having to make costly chassis changes or drivers being forced to conserve fuel excessively – or potentially running out before the chequered flag.

The shortened format may not last beyond 2027. The powertrain formula is due to evolve again in 2028, when ICE output is scheduled to climb to 450kW and fuel flow increase by 13%, creating the targeted 60/40 combustion-to-electric power split and requiring greater fuel capacity.

Race stoppages also face a rethink

The F1 Commission has also proposed changes to how race interruptions are handled. The existing two-hour racing limit will remain, but the current three-hour maximum window for red-flagged grands prix would be scrapped.

Instead, a hard stop time would be introduced for delayed or rain-affected events, taking daylight considerations into account. The FIA said: "these changes were introduced to ensure that the spectators have the best possible chance to enjoy a full race if disruptions occur."

Race directors would also gain greater authority to extend free practice sessions when lengthy red flags eat into running time – an issue highlighted at this year's Spanish Grand Prix, where around 30 minutes of FP3 disappeared after crashes involving Lewis Hamilton and Ollie Bearman.

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Hamilton's Turn 22 impact required roughly 25 minutes of barrier repairs before Bearman's late-session accident cost another five minutes.

Elsewhere, gearbox homologation will be scrapped for 2027, allowing manufacturers to continue developing their transmissions. Further minor technical changes, along with undisclosed sporting and financial amendments for 2026, are also awaiting WMSC approval.

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