F1 2026 Aero Architect Jason Somerville Set For Team Return After FIA Exit
Jason Somerville, the FIA's Head of Aerodynamics and a key architect of the 2026 F1 regulations, is leaving the governing body to return to a team on the grid. His intimate knowledge of the new active aero rules, including 'X-mode' and 'Y-mode,' makes him a highly sought-after talent. While his destination isn't officially confirmed, speculation strongly links him to Alpine, a move that could significantly impact the team's preparations for the upcoming regulation changes.
Jason Somerville, a key FIA architect behind the upcoming F1 2026 aerodynamic regulations, is set to depart the governing body and return to a Formula 1 team. His expertise, particularly with the new active aerodynamics featuring 'X-mode' and 'Y-mode' configurations, will be a significant asset to his new employer.
Why it matters:
Somerville's move is a substantial loss for the FIA but a major coup for the team securing his services. His intimate knowledge of the 2026 regulations, which he helped shape, could provide a crucial competitive advantage as teams navigate the radical new aerodynamic landscape. This insider perspective could be invaluable for early development and interpretation of the rules, potentially influencing the pecking order in the next generation of F1.
The Details:
- FIA Departure Confirmed: The FIA confirmed Somerville's departure from his role as Head of Aerodynamics, a position he's held since early 2022.
- Key Role in 2026 Regulations: Somerville was instrumental in developing the active aerodynamic concepts for 2026, including the innovative 'X-mode' and 'Y-mode' for optimal efficiency through corners and reduced drag on straights.
- Gardening Leave: He will undergo a mandatory period of gardening leave, during which he will work on non-F1 projects and have restricted access to sensitive information, in line with FIA's standard off-boarding procedures.
- Prior Experience: Before his FIA tenure, Somerville led aerodynamic rule development for Formula One Management (FOM) during the ground-effect era, which began in 2022. He also served as Williams' Head of Aero from 2011 to 2017, contributing to successful cars like the 2014 FW36 and 2015 FW37.
- Previous Team Stints: His career also includes senior aerodynamicist roles at Lotus, Toyota, Tom Walkinshaw Racing, and an earlier stint at Williams during its BMW-powered era.
- Likely Destination: While not officially confirmed, multiple paddock sources initially pointed to Cadillac. However, it is now understood that Somerville is not joining the American outfit or Aston Martin. Instead, Alpine is considered the likely destination, reportedly influenced by his close working relationship with Alpine's current Managing Director, Steve Nielsen, during their time at the FIA.
What's Next:
Somerville's return to the grid after his gardening leave, expected to be at least six months, will undoubtedly be one of the most closely watched personnel moves ahead of the 2026 season. The team that successfully integrates his deep understanding of the new regulations could gain a significant head start. If he does join Alpine, it signals a strategic move by the French team to bolster their technical department with top-tier talent as they aim to climb up the grid in the new era of F1.