FIA Committed to Start Procedure Refinements as McLaren Advocates for Practical Solutions
The FIA has pledged to continue evaluating modifications to Formula 1's starting sequence ahead of the 2026 season, with McLaren team principal Andrea Stella championing adjustments that would address the challenges posed by the current turbo spooling requirements on the grid.
McLaren team principal Andrea Stella recently highlighted significant concerns regarding the cumbersome starting procedures that have emerged with Formula 1's 2026 generation machinery. The issue centers on the demanding manual turbo spooling process, which requires drivers to maintain elevated engine revolutions for extended periods—over 10 seconds—before the formation lap commences.
Recognizing these challenges, Stella has appealed to the FIA to examine extended start procedure timings as a viable solution to ensure drivers can adequately prepare their power units without technical complications. His calls for pragmatic adjustments have resonated with the sport's governing body.
During Wednesday's F1 Commission gathering, the FIA indicated its intention to maintain ongoing trials and evaluations of the start procedure. This commitment signals the organization's willingness to refine the process and address the practical difficulties that teams are experiencing with the new technical regulations.
The dialogue between McLaren and the FIA underscores the collaborative effort required to perfect grid procedures in Formula 1's evolving landscape. As testing continues throughout the 2026 season preparations, further refinements are anticipated to create a smoother, more efficient launching sequence that works harmoniously with the current power unit specifications.
Original source
Motorsport.com
Related Regulations
Hover over badges for quick summaries, or scroll down for full official text and simplified explanations.
Full Regulation Text
Article 48.1
Race Start Procedure
Chapter: Chapter IV - The Race
In Simple Terms
The race start follows a strict countdown. At the one-minute signal, all engines must start and team staff must leave. If a car has problems after the 15-second signal, the driver raises their arm and the car gets pushed to the pit lane while others proceed. This ensures safety and fairness in race starts.
- Engines must start at one-minute signal
- Team personnel leave grid by 15-second signal
- Drivers with problems raise arm for assistance
- Stricken cars pushed to pit lane
Official FIA Text
When the one minute signal is shown, engines should be started and all team personnel must leave the grid by the time the 15 second signal is shown. If any driver needs assistance after the 15 second signal he must raise his arm and, when the remainder of the cars able to do so have left the grid, marshals will be instructed to push the car into the pit lane.
Article B5.5.1
Start Announcement Signals
Chapter: B5
In Simple Terms
Before a race starts, F1 officials give drivers warning signals at set intervals—10 minutes, 5 minutes, 3 minutes, 1 minute, and 15 seconds before the formation lap begins. Each signal includes both a visual display and an audible (sound) warning so drivers know the race is about to start.
- Five countdown signals are given before the formation lap starts
- Signals occur at 10, 5, 3, 1 minutes and 15 seconds before the start
- Each signal includes both a visual display and an audible warning sound
- These announcements help drivers prepare for the race start
Official FIA Text
The approach of the start of a TTCS will be announced by signals shown ten (10) minutes, five (5) minutes, three (3) minutes, one (1) minute and fifteen (15) seconds before the start of the formation lap, each of which will be accompanied by an audible warning.
Article 2.2
2026 Power Unit Regulations
Chapter: Chapter II - Power Unit Changes
In Simple Terms
2026 brings major engine rule changes. The complex MGU-H is removed to cut costs and attract new manufacturers. To compensate, the MGU-K becomes much more powerful and the battery is bigger. The goal is simpler, more sustainable power units that are still cutting-edge.
- MGU-H removed from power units
- MGU-K power increased significantly
- Larger energy store capacity
- Aims to attract new manufacturers
Official FIA Text
For 2026, the power unit will comprise a 1.6 litre V6 turbocharged internal combustion engine with a significantly enhanced electrical component. The MGU-H will be removed. The electrical power output will increase substantially with a more powerful MGU-K and larger energy store.
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