Formula 1’s engine regulations have led the series to cut the length of grands prix next year.

The current maximum race distance of 305 kilometres, for all events except Monaco, has been in place for decades.

The FIA confirmed a new maximum of 290 kilometres will apply from next year. The sport’s governing body said the change is being made “in line with the refinements to the power unit regulations to be introduced in 2027 on fuel flow.”

The change has been made necessary as a result of the alterations to the 2027 engine rules which were agreed soon after this season began. After teams realised the current rules forced cars to slow significantly at most circuits to save electrical energy, teams agreed to increase the proportion of combustion power for next year.

As this change will lead to an increase in fuel flow and consumption, some teams faced having to redesign their cars for next year to a greater extent than they originally intended in order to complete existing race distances under the new rules. To avoid this, the FIA has instead agreed to shorten races.

“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,” said the FIA in a statement.”

Separately, the FIA has removed the thee-hour time limit on interrupted races. “Regarding races that are disrupted by rain or other factors, it was decided that a hard stop time would be introduced for the end of any racing activity, but that the current limitation of a race to three hours (from its start to its end – including interruptions) would be removed,” it explained. “The limit of two hours of actual racing will remain.”

“These changes were introduced to ensure that the spectators have the best possible chance to enjoy a full race if disruptions occur. It was also agreed that there would be greater flexibility to extend free practice sessions should they be interrupted.”

The FIA also approved rules granting teams greater freedom in developing their gearboxes for next year. “Following consultation with the relevant manufacturer working group, and a recommendation from the Sporting Advisory Committee, it was agreed to remove gearbox homologation for 2027 which would preserve supplier development freedom,” it said.

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