P1racenews AI automatic summary:
In 2026 the new F1 regulations mean you’ll be hearing some unfamiliar terms and this time we’re tackling the all new hazard lights.
The new F1 regulations for 2026 introduce hazard lights on the cars, mounted on the mirrors to enhance safety by improving visibility in adverse conditions.
These hazard lights are designed to be seen from various angles, unlike the previous rear lights, making them more effective in alerting other drivers of a stopped or spinning car on track.
The addition of mirror-mounted lights aims to reduce the risk of accidents, especially in rainy or low visibility situations, as seen in the tragic incident at Spa in 2023.
FIA’s Nikolas Tombazis explains that these lights will help alert other drivers during poor visibility, such as in wet conditions, and also indicate the status of the electrical recovery system when a car is travelling slowly out of the pits.
The 2026 F1 season kicks off in Melbourne on March 8 with the Australian Grand Prix, while Bahrain testing begins on February 18, providing teams with valuable track time before the start of the season.
