FIA adds a minute to Q3 as qualifying expands for 2026

The FIA has nudged the 2026 qualifying format, extending Q3 by one minute while trimming the gap between Q2 and Q3. With the grid swelling to 22 cars after Cadillac’s entry, six drivers now drop out in Q1 and Q2, keeping a ten‑car showdown for pole.

Why it matters:

• The extra minute expands the window for a flying lap, potentially curbing the last‑second scrambles that have cost drivers pole positions.
• A shorter Q2‑Q3 break forces teams to speed up tire changes and car set‑up work, testing pit‑lane efficiency.
• Keeping ten cars in the final shootout preserves the spectacle even as the grid grows, ensuring a clear battle for pole.

The details:

• Q3 now runs for 13 minutes, up from 12.
• The pause between Q2 and Q3 is reduced to 7 minutes, down from 8.
• Six drivers are eliminated in Q1 and Q2, leaving ten cars for the pole shootout.
• The grid expands to 22 cars for 2026 after Cadillac joins as the 11th team.
• The first test of the new format will be at the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on March 7.

What's next:

Melbourne will be the proving ground. Teams will see if the extra minute adds a useful flying lap or just more tension. If it smooths the shootout, the FIA may lock it in for 2027; if not, further tweaks could follow.