F1 announce major change to races which will be implemented for first time in 68 years

FORMULA ONE is making a change to Grand Prix weekends next year, with race distances to be reduced. Distances will be cut from 305km to 290km due to the alteration of technical regulations for next season. The length of F1 races will be reduced next year Credit: Getty Each race will be two to three race laps shorter Credit: Getty It corresponds to a reduction of two to three race laps, depending on the circuit. The change is being made because of the increase of fuel flow rates, with FIA officials looking to optimise the new regulations that were introduced at the start of this year. Sign up for the Sport newsletter Thank you! A statement from the FIA read: “In line with the refinements to the Power Unit regulations to be introduced in 2027 on fuel flow, a reduction in the total race distance from 305km to 290km was approved, corresponding to a reduction of two or three laps.” The World Motor Sport Council must approve the decision, although that is expected to be a formality. The official F1 race length has not been cut since 1958 – when it was reduced from 500km. There is also set to be a slight change to protocols around races disrupted by rain or any other interruptions. The three-hour limit from the race start to finish has been removed, with a “hard stop” time for the end of any racing activity to be introduced. A two-hour limit for actual racing will stay in place “to ensure that the spectators have the best possible chance to enjoy a full race” if disruptions occur. Most read in Sport CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS There will also be more flexibility to extend Free Practice sessions if they are interrupted. Kimi Antonelli is currently leading the driver standings for this year with 292 points, 81 more than team-mate George Russell. Ferrari superstar Lewis Hamilton is third with 191 points. Comment now