Sports · updated 53m ago · 2 min read
F1 Cuts Grand Prix Race Distance From 305km To 290km For 2027
Race distance reduced from 305 km to 290 km starting 2027. Typically two to three fewer laps per race.
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5 of 8 outlets skipped it: hard stop replaces the 3-hour interrupted-race limit.
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Shorter 2027 Grands Prix
Formula 1 announced that the maximum race distance for grands prix will be reduced by 15km from 305km (189.5 miles) to 290km (180.2 miles) for the 2027 season. Formula 1 said the change is tied to the ratio of internal combustion to electrical power shifting from 53-47 this year to 58-42 next year, before becoming 60-40 in 2028. The FIA statement said, "These changes were introduced to ensure that the spectators have the best possible chance to enjoy a full race if disruptions occur."
The F1 Commission approved the same 305km to 290km cut at its meeting in London, with the decision finalized at the offices of the FIA in London. The reduction means race distances will be reduced by between two and four laps across the 2027 season, with Monaco remaining the exception at 260 km (162 miles).
Hard stop replaces clock
Formula 1 said grands prix are limited to a maximum of two hours of racing, but when interruptions occur, a "hard stop time" will replace the current maximum three-hour duration to finish the event. The FIA said the hard stop time will vary from race to race, depending on local conditions, including whether a race is at night or during the day. Formula 1 Commission documents also said the current limitation of a race to three hours, from its start to its end including interruptions, would be removed while the limit of two hours of actual racing remains.
The FIA statement explained the rule change as a way to give spectators "the best possible chance to enjoy a full race if disruptions occur." The F1 Commission also agreed to introduce "greater flexibility to extend free practice sessions should they be interrupted," so interrupted sessions do not leave teams with less time before qualifying or the race.
Power units drive the rules
Formula 1 said the reduction in race distance was introduced because the ratio of internal combustion to electrical power is changing from 53-47 this year to 58-42 next year, before becoming 60-40 in 2028. Formula 1 said the cars will use more fuel, and it linked that concern to teams wanting to carry their chassis over into next year to save money. The BBC reported that the fuel tank is within the chassis and therefore its size could not be changed, which meant teams might not have been able to finish grands prix with their existing fuel tanks.
The F1 Commission also agreed to remove gearbox homologation for 2027, and the FIA statement said the change would "preserve freedom of development for suppliers." The F1 Commission chairing roles were set at the meeting in London, with FIA Single-Seater Director Nikolas Tombazis and FOM President and CEO Stefano Domenicali chairing the third meeting of the Formula 1 Commission in 2026.