P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Here’s what Formula 1’s aero restrictions table looks like going into a crucial early-2026 development phase
“Development time is critical for Formula 1 teams, especially in the initial months of 2026 as they prepare for the new season.
The cars teams bring to the first pre-season test will evolve based on competitor insights, leading to significant changes in aero testing restrictions (ATR) introduced by F1 in 2021.
ATR, refreshed biannually and determined by previous championship standings, vary for teams in 2026 – with reigning champ McLaren facing greater restrictions compared to the bottom-ranked Alpine and debutant Cadillac.
The evolving restrictions – effective January 1 – reflect teams’ end-2025 standings, with notable adjustments benefitting lower-ranked teams like Haas and Ferrari.
Despite limitations in windtunnel runs and CFD items, strategic aero testing remains pivotal for all teams in maximizing performance gains.”
