There is set to be a slight reduction in the length of Formula 1 races for the 2027 season, the FIA has confirmed.
At a meeting of the F1 Commission in London on Monday, the sport’s decision-makers agreed to reduce Grand Prix distances from 305km to 290km, corresponding to a reduction of two to three laps depending on the circuit.
The change is being made because fuel flow rates are increasing next season as part of the measures the FIA is introducing to optimize the completely new regulations brought in at the start of 2026.
The FIA said: “In line with the improvements to the power unit regulations to be introduced in 2027 for fuel flow, a reduction in the total distance of the race from 305 km to 290 km was approved, corresponding to a reduction of two or three laps.”
The decision must be approved by the World Motor Sport Council, but this is expected to be a formality.
The FIA also announced slight changes to protocols around races interrupted by rain or other factors, with a limit of three hours (including stoppages) from race start to finish removed, but a “hard stop” time for the completion of any racing event to be introduced.
A limit of two hours of racing remains, with those decisions made “to ensure that spectators have the best possible chance of enjoying a full race should interruptions occur”.
It was also confirmed that there will be “greater flexibility to extend Free Practice sessions if they are interrupted”.
Current rules only allow practice sessions to be extended on Sprint weekends, but such measures may now also be available on a regular schedule.
Racing on Saturday! The 2026 Formula 1 season continues live on Sky Sports F1 this week as the Azerbaijan Grand Prix kicks off a three-legged race, with the race in Baku taking place at midday on Saturday. Stream Sky Sports with NOW – no contract, cancel anytime
