P1racenews AI automatic summary:
F1 2026 Regulations: What is the boost button?
The 2026 F1 season brings in new regulations, including significant changes to aerodynamic car design rules and power unit regulations, possibly reshuffling last year’s competitive order.
Power units in 2026 will maintain a 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrid configuration, but with a greater emphasis on electrical energy, leading to a nearly equal distribution with the internal combustion engine.
Drivers will now have a heightened responsibility in managing battery capacity, especially with the introduction of features like the ‘overtake mode’ and the intriguing ‘boost mode’ which is extensively talked about.
Boost mode is a strategic tool accessible to drivers via a button on their steering wheels, enabling them to utilize the full power of their cars with clever energy deployment tactics.
2026 also sees enhancements in energy recovery systems, giving drivers more opportunities to use boost mode if they efficiently handle their battery capacity throughout the race.
The 2026 F1 season kicks off on March 6 in Melbourne with the Australian Grand Prix, preceded by test sessions in Bahrain aimed at helping teams and drivers fine-tune their preparations for the challenges ahead.
