Formula 1 will stick with its tried-and-tested points system for the 2025 season. A proposal to extend point-scoring positions beyond the top 10 has been unanimously rejected by all teams.
The idea gained traction earlier this year as several midfield teams found themselves consistently out of the points. However, the recent resurgence of some teams, coupled with the complexity of implementing a new system, led to a consensus to maintain the current format.
While the points distribution remains unchanged, the FIA has introduced other regulations to address various aspects of the sport. To ensure the well-being of drivers, the minimum weight for drivers has been increased from 80kg to 82kg, resulting in a 2kg increase in the overall car weight.
Financial regulations have also been discussed. The cost cap, which limits team spending, will be raised to approximately $220 million for the upcoming seasons. However, to maintain fairness, certain expenses related to maternity/paternity leave, sick leave, and team entertainment will continue to be excluded from the cap. This decision aims to support gender equality and prevent financial burdens on teams that employ female staff.
The meeting also delved into the specifics of the 2026 regulations. The new power units will significantly alter the car's design, necessitating adjustments to the chassis. The FIA has provided teams with an updated timeline for finalizing these regulations, with a crucial meeting scheduled for October.
To give teams ample time to develop and test their new cars, the pre-season testing period for 2026 has been extended to nine days, divided into three three-day tests. This will allow teams to refine their designs and prepare for the new era of Formula 1.
As the sport continues to evolve, fans can expect more developments in the coming months, with the focus shifting towards the technical challenges posed by the 2026 regulations.
