F1 Stewards Gain New Powers for 2026 to Review Incidents

Formula 1 stewards will have expanded authority starting in 2026, including the ability to re-open their own decisions and convene special panels during off-weeks. These changes, part of a broader FIA International Sporting Code update, aim to create a more flexible and timely judicial process for reviewing on-track incidents across F1, F2, and F3.

Why it matters:

The current system often leaves teams and drivers waiting for the next race weekend for penalty reviews or for final decisions on time-sensitive matters. These updates address long-standing criticisms about the pace and finality of stewarding decisions, potentially leading to quicker resolutions and greater consistency in the application of the rules.

The Details:

• Self-Initiated Review: A major shift allows stewards themselves to re-examine a decision if they discover a "significant and relevant new element" that was unavailable when the original verdict was made. Previously, only competitors could petition for a review within 96 hours of an event.
• Out-of-Competition Panel: A new system will allow for the appointment of a stewards' panel outside of a race event. This is designed for time-sensitive matters where waiting for the next Grand Prix weekend would be inappropriate, such as during the summer shutdown or winter break.
  • This panel must include at least five members with expertise in the relevant championship.
  • Hearings will typically be held via video conference, with in-person meetings possible for complex cases if parties agree to cover the costs.

What's next:

These procedural updates, coupled with the FIA's mention of secured funding for stewarding improvements in the new Concorde Agreement, signal a push for a more modern and responsive officiating framework. The true test will be in their application during the 2026 season, where their use in high-profile incidents will determine if they successfully enhance fairness and efficiency in Formula 1's judicial process.