F1 changes qualifying session format in 2026
The FIA has confirmed changes to the qualifying session format for the 2026 Formula 1 season, aiming to accommodate the grid expansion with the arrival of Cadillac as the 11th team. The main change will be the elimination of the sixth slowest car, instead of the five eliminated in previous years, in both the Q1 and Q2 phases.
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Even with this change, the final qualifying phase (Q3) will continue with ten cars, where pole position will be decided. However, the duration of Q3 will be extended by one minute, increasing from twelve to thirteen minutes. The change is partially offset by the reduction of the interval between Q2 and Q3, which was decreased from eight to seven minutes.
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Additionally, the FIA has also decided to abolish the mandatory two-pit-stop rule that had been implemented at the Monaco GP last year. This rule was introduced to make the race in the Principality more unpredictable, but it ended up resulting in a strategy that did not meet the expectations of fans, drivers, or teams, being seen as a ‘farce’ that brought no improvements to the racing experience.
