The FIA’s Formula 1 Commission met in Geneva for their fifth meeting of 2024 to map out regulatory updates for 2025 and beyond, including the introduction of a F1 cooling kit.
Here’s what’s in store as F1 looks to the future:
New driver cooling kits for 2025
The FIA’s approach to safety seems to be taking a turn for the better with the approval of a new F1 cooling kit for the 2025 season.
This decision likely comes following unsafe heat conditions at races e.g., in Qatar, where drivers suffered from heat exhaustion and dehydration. This new cooling system will be used when a “heat hazard” is declared.
“The commission has approved a range of technical changes for the 2025 season including the introduction of a driver cooling kit when heat hazard gets declared following encouraging test results.”
Updated grid protocols for 2025
The FIA has revised its protocols with regard to starting procedures. Under the new rules, cars withdrawn directly before the race no longer leave an empty slot on the grid. Instead, the grid will close up, reducing the potential for confusion aswe’ve seen in 2024.
“Building on discussions prompted by the recent São Paulo Grand Prix, the Commission has confirmed a revised protocol for closing up the grid when a team withdraws a car.”
Rookie sprint race in 2026
The Commission has revived talks around a rookie sprint race, an idea considered for 2024 but postponed. Now, the FIA plans to revisit the rookie sprint race in 2025 with the hope of introducing it in 2026.
“The rookie sprint race initiative was also revisited. The commission remains interested in the concept and will consider it further in 2025 with the aim of having a rookie sprint race in 2026.”
Financial green light for sustainability initiatives
The FIA has granted more financial exemptions for sustainability initiatives.
This means sustainability-related expenses won’t count toward financial caps, allowing teams more room to innovate as they work towards F1’s commitment to becoming a greener sport.
“The Commission approved further measures to expand the exclusion of sustainability initiative costs from the financial regulations for 2025.”
2026 regulations
The FIA has made progress toward finalising the 2026 technical regulations and is planning to present these at the first World Motor Sport Council meeting of 2025.
“The regulatory drafting process for 2026 has progressed significantly. Section A, designed to establish a cohesive framework for all subsequent sections, is expected to be presented at the first World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) meeting in 2025.”
Among these will be updates to confidentiality measures, and a shift toward gender-neutral language in the Sporting Regulations, promoting an inclusive environment.
“In Section B, revisions to the Sporting Regulations will incorporate gender-neutral language, highlighting the FIA’s commitment to inclusivity across the board.”
“The commission has been updated on the progresses made with the teams and the Technical Regulations (section C) should reach completion in time for the next WMSC. The overarching objectives in terms of starting level of performance are likely to be achieved.”
“Regarding the Financial Regulations (Section D), measures to strengthen confidentiality provisions during investigations and other procedural matters were discussed.”
