As the 2025 F1 season approaches, several significant regulation changes have been introduced to enhance competition, safety, and the overall spectacle of the sport.
Here’s an overview of the key updates before it’s lights out for the first time in Australia next weekend.
1. Elimination of the Fastest Lap point
Since 2019, drivers finishing within the top 10 were awarded an additional point for setting the fastest lap. However, this rule has been abolished for the 2025 season under the new F1 regulation changes. The decision aims to simplify race strategies and eliminate scenarios where drivers outside the top 10 could influence the championship by setting the fastest lap without earning points themselves.
2. Mandatory driver cooling systems
A’ Heat Hazard’ protocol has been established in response to increasing concerns about driver safety in high-temperature conditions. If forecasts predict temperatures of 31°C or above during an F1 Sprint or Grand Prix, teams are required to equip their cars with FIA-mandated driver cooling systems. Consequently, the minimum car weight will increase by 2kg during practice, qualifying, and Sprint Qualifying sessions. During Sprints or Grands Prix it will increase by 5kg to accommodate the additional equipment.
3. Increased opportunities for rookie drivers
To promote the development of emerging talent, teams are now obligated to run rookie drivers—those with no more than two F1 race starts—in at least four FP1 sessions throughout the season, doubling the previous requirement. This initiative provides invaluable track experience for newcomers and aids teams in evaluating potential future drivers.
4. Stricter regulations on DRS and wing deflections
The FIA has tightened technical regulations concerning the Drag Reduction System (DRS) and wing flexibility. F1 teams must ensure that rear wings operate strictly in two positions—open and closed—to prevent exploitation of aerodynamic advantages. Additionally, more rigorous deflection tests will be implemented to limit wing flexing. The rear wing assessments started from the season’s onset, and the front wing tests commenced from the Spanish Grand Prix.
5. Revisions to Qualifying procedures
In scenarios where qualifying sessions cannot proceed—due to adverse weather conditions, for instance—the starting grid will now be determined based on the current F1 Drivers’ Championship standings, provided the stewards approve. If this method is inapplicable, such as during the season’s opening race, the grid order will be at the stewards’ discretion.
6. Introduction of mandatory pit stops at the Monaco Grand Prix
To enhance the racing spectacle at circuits where overtaking is notoriously challenging, such as the Monaco Grand Prix, the FIA has introduced a mandate requiring all teams to make at least two pit stops during the race. This change aims to promote strategic variation and increase on-track action. This addresses longstanding concerns about processional races at this iconic F1 venue.
7. Enhanced testing for 2026 preparations
With significant technical changes anticipated for the 2026 F1 season, including new power unit regulations and chassis designs, teams are permitted to use ‘mule cars’—modified versions of current or recent models—to test prototype components and tyres. This approach facilitates a smoother transition to the forthcoming regulations by allowing teams to gather crucial data in advance.
These regulatory updates reflect F1’s commitment to evolving the sport by prioritising safety, encouraging new talent. It enhances the overall competitiveness and entertainment value of each Grand Prix.
