FIA confirms shorter F1 grands prix from 2027

Formula 1 races will be shortened from 2027. The FIA has confirmed that total race distance will drop from 305km to 290km, meaning two to three fewer laps per grand prix.

Why it matters:

The change is part of the next-generation power unit rules, with fuel flow refinements making shorter races a logical step. The FIA also introduced a hard stop time for disrupted races, replacing the three-hour overall limit, while keeping the two-hour actual racing cap. The goal: ensure fans get a full race even when rain or incidents interrupt.

The details:

• Race distance cut to 290km from 305km.
• A new hard stop time ends all racing activity; the three-hour limit is gone.
• The two-hour actual racing limit remains.
• Free practice sessions can be extended more easily if interrupted.
• Gearbox homologation is removed from 2027, giving manufacturers more development freedom.
• Further minor technical regulation changes are still to be announced.

What's next:

The new format arrives in 2027. Teams will start adjusting strategy and reliability planning, while the FIA prepares to release the remaining details.