F1 Unveils Key Terminology for 2026's New Technical Era

Formula 1 has standardized the key terminology for its 2026 technical revolution, defining the new driver tools like 'Overtake Mode' and 'Active Aero' that will replace current systems like DRS. The move aims to simplify the complex new regulations for fans and broadcasters ahead of the cars' track debut in Barcelona next year.

Why it matters:

The 2026 season represents the biggest technical overhaul in a decade, introducing new power units and active aerodynamics. Clear, consistent terminology is crucial for fan engagement and understanding, ensuring the narrative around races and driver battles remains accessible rather than obscured by engineering jargon.

The Details:

• Overtake Mode: Replaces the Drag Reduction System (DRS). It provides extra power to a driver within one second of a car ahead, usable all at once or strategically spread over a lap to aid passing.
• Boost Mode: A driver-operated button delivering maximum power from both the engine and battery, usable anywhere on track for offensive or defensive moves. This is the primary Energy Recovery System (ERS) deployment tool.
• Active Aero: Dynamically adjustable front and rear wings in high-speed zones, switching between 'Corner' and 'Straight' modes to optimize grip and straight-line speed.
• Recharge: The process for replenishing the battery using energy recovered from braking, throttle lift, and even partial-power cornering.

The Big Picture:

The 2026 rules shift the power unit balance to a 50/50 split between internal combustion and electrical energy, facilitated by removing the complex MGU-H and boosting the MGU-K. These new driver modes are integral to managing that hybrid energy strategically during a race. F1 developed the terms in collaboration with the FIA, teams, and engineers specifically to "avoid gimmicks and jargon," prioritizing clear language for both new and longtime fans.

What's Next:

The first prototypes under these new regulations are just over a month from their initial on-track running at pre-season testing in Barcelona. As teams finalize their 2026 designs, this standardized glossary will become the foundation for all official communication, shaping how the next era of Formula 1 is described and understood globally.