F1 Commission cuts grand prix race distances for 2027

The length of a grand prix distance will be shortened in 2027 as a result of fuel flow changes to the power unit regulations, the F1 Commission has decided.

Formula 1 stakeholders – including the teams and the FIA – have agreed to changes to the power units next season, which has created a knock-on impact on efforts to improve the racing spectacle. An increase in the maximum power output of the internal combustion engine (ICE) from 400kW to 420kW is delivered via a 5% increase in fuel flow, with a further step in 2028 set to deliver a maximum power output of 450kW and a 13% fuel flow increase.

Those changes are made in conjunction with a reduction in electrical power from the motor generator unit (MGU-K), working towards a 60/40 ICE to MGU-K power split by 2028. However, the fuel flow increase will be accomplished by reducing the race distance rather than increasing fuel tank sizes.

“In line with the refinements to the Power Unit regulations to be introduced in 2027 on fuel flow, a reduction in the total race distance from 305km to 290km was approved, corresponding to a reduction of two or three laps,” an FIA statement read, following Monday's F1 Commission meeting.

The meeting also brought changes to the limitations on race windows. A grand prix was previously limited to two hours of total running time that had to take place within a three-hour window from the start of the race.

“Regarding races that are disrupted by rain or other factors, it was decided that a hard stop time would be introduced for the end of any racing activity, but that the current limitation of a race to three hours (from its start to its end – including interruptions) would be removed. The limit of two hours of actual racing will remain," read the statement.

“These changes were introduced to ensure that the spectators have the best possible chance to enjoy a full race if disruptions occur. It was also agreed that there would be greater flexibility to extend Free Practice sessions should they be interrupted.”