F1 Puts Mandatory Two-Stop Strategy On Hold Amid Team Opposition

A proposal to mandate two pit stops per Grand Prix in Formula 1 has been tabled, with most F1 teams reportedly pushing back against the idea, fearing it would reduce race variability rather than enhance it. The discussion, which took place at a recent F1 Commission meeting, will be deferred until the 2026 season.

Why it matters:

After years of consistent one-stop races due to increasingly durable Pirelli tires, FOM and Pirelli suggested mandatory two-stops or softer compounds to spice up racing. However, F1 teams largely believe this regulation would lead to less strategic diversity, forcing everyone onto the same pit strategy, which would detract from the racing spectacle.

The details:

• The F1 Commission discussed a proposal for mandatory two-stop strategies, along with adjustments to tire specifications, tire-life limits, and the use of three compounds during a race.
• The FIA's statement confirmed that no changes were agreed upon, and talks would continue during the 2026 season.
• Team Consensus: Most teams expressed misgivings, arguing that mandatory two-stop strategies would significantly reduce strategic variability and race diversity.
• Impact of 2026 Regulations: The consensus among teams is to monitor the effects of the major chassis aero and power unit regulation changes planned for F1 2026 before re-evaluating the pit stop topic.
• FOM's Rationale: Formula One Management (FOM) proposed the changes due to analysis showing a risk of nearly all races becoming one-stop events because of the current tire compounds' longevity.
• Stefano Domenicali's Stance: F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali reportedly agreed with the teams' position that a mandatory two-stop strategy would likely reduce variability.
• Pirelli's View: Pirelli boss Mario Isola has consistently expressed concerns that mandatory two-stops would risk all cars stopping on the same lap, leading to less varied strategies.

Between the lines:

Team principals, including Racing Bulls' Alan Permane, McLaren's Andrea Stella, and Williams' James Vowles, voiced concerns about the potential for reduced variability. They emphasized that tires should naturally dictate a two-stop strategy through degradation rather than a forced rule. Vowles specifically highlighted the need to focus on tire degradation and the performance gaps between compounds as the foundational elements for exciting racing.

What's next:

The topic will remain on hold until the 2026 season. The sport will first observe how the significant chassis, aerodynamic, and power unit regulation changes impact racing before revisiting the idea of mandatory two-stop strategies. The focus will likely remain on developing tire compounds that inherently encourage more diverse strategies through natural degradation.