Mandatory double pit stops, car livery… The FIA ​​held its last F1 Commission meeting of the year

It is these meetings that can change the face of the Formula 1For better or for worse. In the FIA ​​offices in London, the latest meeting of the F1 Commission took place this Friday, with several impactful measures on the agenda.

It has notably been proposed to introduce "Two mandatory pit stops per Grand Prix, as well as adjustments regarding tire specifications, their lifespan limits, and the use of three different tire compounds during the race."This is similar to what was done at the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix, where teams were required not to exceed a certain number of laps on each set of tires, as they suffered particularly on the sharp kerbs of the Losail circuit.

Then, it was in Monaco this year that the two-stop rule came into effect, with rather mixed results. There is talk of this format returning for future editions of the race in the Principality, but as for the other Grands Prix, "Discussions will continue during the 2026 season."Thus, it could become mandatory to pass through the pit lane twice as early as 2027, if the measure were to be adopted in the coming months.

A new cooling system for the drivers? 

During the F1 Commission meeting, the visual aspect of the 2026 season liveries was also discussed. To ensure the cars are easily distinguishable, the Commission representatives agreed "that at least 55% of the surface (viewed from the side and top) had to be covered with paint or stickers, instead of being left with exposed carbon fiber." This will prevent a situation similar to previous years, where teams sought to achieve minimum weight by shedding excess paint.

Finally, another hot topic – no pun intended: cooling jackets, the requirement to wear them when the temperature reaches 31°C is not welcomed by all drivers. Those who do not wish to use the device during Grands Prix declared to be in "extreme heat" must carry ballast to compensate for the weight.

An improvement in the functionality of these controversial vests was discussed, as well as an increase in the weight they must carry when not in use. These measures will first be discussed with the GPDA, the Grand Prix Drivers' Association, before potentially being submitted to the World Motor Sport Council on December 10th.

Finally, the last topics discussed: modifications to the restrictions relating to aerodynamic testing (ATR) are currently being developed. "in order to bring Formula 1 up to the level of contemporary processing and simulation technologies, while taking cost considerations into account"The possibility for drivers to change their number during their career was also discussed and approved. However, all regulatory changes are subject to the approval of the World Motor Sport Council.

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