Motorsports Global
Formula 11 min read

F1 Teams Prioritize Qualifying Tweaks in Regulation Review

19 Mar 202619 Mar 2026

Formula 1 teams have identified qualifying as a key focus in ongoing regulation discussions, while expressing satisfaction with current race formats. The review aims to refine the weekend structure without major overhauls.

Key Takeaways

  • 1."Qualifying is where we see the most opportunity for improvement," said one team principal familiar with the discussions.
  • 2."The races are delivering what fans want, but there's always room to refine how we set the grid." The FIA and Formula 1 management are leading the review process with input from all ten constructor teams.
  • 3."This is about fine-tuning rather than revolution." The discussions come amid F1's continued global growth and efforts to balance tradition with innovation.

Formula 1 teams have reached a consensus that qualifying should be the priority in the sport's ongoing regulation review, according to recent discussions. While no specific changes have been finalized, stakeholders agree the current race formats are working well.

Sources indicate the review focuses on potential tweaks to qualifying procedures rather than wholesale changes to the race weekend structure. The talks come as F1 continues to evaluate ways to enhance the competitive spectacle without disrupting the championship's core appeal.

"Qualifying is where we see the most opportunity for improvement," said one team principal familiar with the discussions. "The races are delivering what fans want, but there's always room to refine how we set the grid."

The FIA and Formula 1 management are leading the review process with input from all ten constructor teams. While no timeline has been announced, any changes would likely be implemented for the 2025 season at the earliest.

Current qualifying formats, including the knockout Q1-Q3 system, have remained largely unchanged since their introduction in 2006. Teams are reportedly considering adjustments to session lengths or elimination procedures rather than radical overhauls.

"We're happy with the general direction of the racing product," another team representative noted. "This is about fine-tuning rather than revolution." The discussions come amid F1's continued global growth and efforts to balance tradition with innovation.

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