F1 Set To Dial Back Hybrid Power Split From 2027 After Driver Backlash

Last Updated:May 09, 2026, 09:51 IST

Formula 1 bosses have agreed to tweak the 2027 engine rules, reducing battery reliance after drivers raised concerns over safety and energy-starved racing.

It’s official: F1’s ambitious new engine era is already getting a rethink.

After months of complaints from drivers, teams and fans alike, F1 bosses have agreed in principle to make major tweaks to the sport’s 2027 engine regulations, reducing the heavy reliance on electric power and putting more emphasis back on the traditional combustion engine.

The decision came during an online meeting on Friday involving Formula 1 officials, the FIA, team principals and engine manufacturers, following growing frustration over how the 2026 regulations have impacted racing.

At the heart of the proposed changes is a shift away from the current near-50/50 split between internal combustion and electric power. Instead, F1 plans to move closer to a 60/40 balance in favour of the combustion engine.

In simple terms: less battery dependency, more flat-out racing.

The FIA confirmed the changes would likely include a roughly 50kW increase in internal combustion engine output, alongside a matching reduction in energy recovery system deployment.

“The measures agreed in principle today for 2027 would see a nominal increase in Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) power by ~50kW," the FIA said in a statement.

The current regulations were originally introduced to create smaller, lighter and more sustainable cars powered heavily by electrification and fully sustainable fuels. On paper, it sounded like the future. On track? Drivers quickly found problems.

The new system forced racers into aggressive energy harvesting mid-race, often requiring them to slow dramatically before braking zones just to recharge batteries. That created awkward closing speeds, inconsistent power delivery and, increasingly, safety concerns.

Several drivers complained about having to “lift and coast" through high-speed sections — something many felt ran against the DNA of F1.

The concerns intensified after incidents earlier this season, including Oliver Bearman’s frightening Suzuka crash while approaching a slower, energy-limited rival.

Miami already saw the first round of emergency tweaks introduced, including changes to “super clipping" limits and reduced qualifying energy harvesting. Officials reportedly viewed those adjustments positively, prompting broader discussions about the long-term future of the regulations.

Now, more changes could follow as early as the Canadian Grand Prix, including revised wet-weather procedures, improved start protocols and even new visual signalling systems.

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