F1 Considers Mandatory Two-Stop Rule for 2026 Season

Formula 1 is set to discuss a controversial proposal: introducing mandatory two-stop races as early as the 2026 season. This concept, confirmed to PlanetF1.com, aims to inject more strategic unpredictability into grand prix weekends and enhance on-track action.

Why it matters:

After several races decided by a single pit stop, F1's commercial rights holder is pushing for a rule change to increase strategic variability and reduce the need for excessive tire management. This move could fundamentally alter race dynamics, pushing teams to more aggressive strategies and potentially creating more exciting racing for fans.

The Details:

• Current Rule: Drivers are already required to use two different tire compounds in dry races, effectively mandating at least one pit stop. The exception was the 2024 Monaco Grand Prix, where a mandatory two-stop strategy was trialed, leading to mixed outcomes.
• Proposal's Intent: By introducing a second mandatory stop, the goal is to introduce strategic uncertainty and allow drivers to push harder without constantly managing tire wear.
• Team Resistance: Following the Monaco trial, where some teams notably slowed one car to back up the field before pit stops, F1 teams expressed concerns, and the concept initially lacked the necessary support for an F1 Commission vote.
• Governance Process: For the two-stop rule to be expanded beyond Monaco, it must first be presented to the F1 Commission. Any change to pit stop rules requires a supermajority vote (28 out of 30 votes if after April 30 of the preceding year) from the F1 Commission, which comprises the 10 teams (1 vote each), the FIA (10 votes), and Formula One Management (10 votes).
• 2026 Governance Uncertainty: The governance process for the 2026 season is somewhat unclear due to the absence of a Concorde Agreement beyond the current season. However, F1 is largely proceeding with existing processes, where proposals from the F1 Commission are passed to the World Motorsport Council for formal regulation.

Between the lines:

This proposal highlights the ongoing tension between F1's commercial objectives (driven by Liberty Media's Formula One Management) and its regulatory body, the FIA. FOM seeks to maximize the sport's commercial value by enhancing spectacle and appeal, which often means pushing for more dynamic racing. The FIA, while also aiming for growth, tends to be more conservative and traditional in its approach to regulations. Teams often find themselves balancing both interests.

What's next:

The concept of a mandatory two-stop race will be a key discussion point at upcoming F1 Commission meetings. If approved, it would mark a significant shift in race strategy for the 2026 season, potentially ushering in a new era of F1 racing where tire management takes a backseat to strategic gambles and flat-out driving.