P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The 2026 season will usher in one of the most radical rule overhauls in F1’s modern history. And changes are also coming to the qualifying format — prompted largely by the arrival of Cadillac.
The new chapter of F1 officially begins at the end of January with the first winter test in Barcelona, where teams will showcase their brand-new cars and engines on track.
The power unit regulation will see a significant change from 80/20 split to an even 50/50 balance between internal combustion engine and electric power starting from 2026.
This move aligns F1 with sustainability goals while prioritizing performance and innovation in motorsport.
Excitingly, two new teams, Stake F1 and Cadillac F1, will join the grid in 2026, with Stake F1 becoming Audi’s factory team and Cadillac F1 representing a new American presence in the championship.
Cadillac F1 will feature a strong driver lineup, with Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas confirmed to take the wheel, expanding the F1 grid to include 11 teams in the upcoming season.
