FIA tests longer start procedure to address 2026 turbo challenges

The FIA is trialing a five-second extension to F1's start procedure in Bahrain testing to address concerns over the 2026 power units, which require drivers to manually hold engine revs for over 10 seconds to spool their turbos. The trial, which received positive initial feedback from teams like McLaren, aims to prevent a clunky and chaotic start process in the new technical era, with a final decision expected before the Australian Grand Prix.

Why it matters:

The start of a Grand Prix is one of the most critical and high-pressure moments in a race, where positions are often won or lost. As F1 prepares for its 2026 engine regulations, ensuring a smooth and fair start procedure is essential to maintaining the sport's competitive integrity and spectacle. A poorly designed process could lead to compromised launches, increased jump-start penalties, and frustration for drivers and fans alike.

The Details:

• The trial adds five seconds between the moment cars are fully formed on the grid and the initiation of the five-light starting sequence.
• The change is a direct response to the technical demands of the 2026 power units, where the significantly increased electrical power component reduces the traditional role of the MGU-H, forcing drivers to manually manage turbo spool-up for longer than 10 seconds.
• The extended window was tested in a practice start at the end of Wednesday's running and will be trialed again after each half-day session in Bahrain.
• Team Reaction: McLaren's Performance Technical Director, Mark Temple, described the trial as "sensible," noting that the procedure looked "pretty normal" and helped allay earlier fears about the process being overly awkward or rushed.
• The FIA will collect feedback from all teams and drivers following the tests before making a final ruling for the start of the 2026 season.

What's next:

The Bahrain test serves as a crucial live experiment. The FIA's final assessment and any potential fine-tuning of the start procedure will be based on the data and feedback gathered here.

• A definitive version of the 2026 start procedure is expected to be finalized and published in the sporting regulations ahead of the season opener in Australia next year.
• This proactive testing underscores the sport's attempt to solve foreseeable problems before the new era begins, aiming for a seamless transition that prioritizes both competition and reliability.