EA Sports Not Releasing New F1 Game for 2026, Opts for Expansion Instead

EA Sports has announced it will not release a new Formula 1 game for the 2026 season. Instead, the company plans a “paid expansion to F1 25,” featuring 2026 cars, teams, and regulations. This move allows EA Sports to focus on a complete revamp for its 2027 game, aiming for a version that “looks, feels, and plays differently, delivering more gameplay choices.”

Why it matters:

This strategic shift by EA Sports aligns with Formula 1’s significant technical regulation changes in 2026, which will introduce new power units and active aerodynamics. By opting for an expansion rather than a full new release, EA Sports can avoid rushing the integration of these complex new elements, potentially leading to a more accurate and polished game experience in 2027. This decision reflects a commitment to quality and a long-term vision for the F1 gaming franchise.

The details:

• No F1 26 Game: EA Sports confirmed it will not launch a standalone F1 26 title.
• F1 25 Paid Expansion: Instead, players will receive a paid expansion for F1 25, which will update the game with 2026 cars, teams, and regulations.
  • Motorsport.com has inquired whether this expansion will include the new Madrid street track, set to debut in 2026.
• 2027 Overhaul: The development team will concentrate efforts on a complete redesign for the 2027 game.
  • The goal is to deliver a fundamentally different gameplay experience with more choices for players.
• Developer's Perspective: Lee Mather, Senior Creative Director at Codemasters, stated, “F1 25 has been an incredible success… now is the perfect time for us to look ahead and build for the future.”
  • He emphasized the multi-year plan, extending the excitement with the 2026 expansion and reimagining the F1 experience for 2027.

The big picture:

Formula 1’s 2026 season marks a major technical era, with cars featuring new power units emphasizing electric energy and active aerodynamics on the chassis. Replicating these changes accurately in a game requires significant development time and resources. EA Sports' decision to delay a full new release until 2027 allows developers to thoroughly understand and integrate these complex new behaviors, rather than potentially releasing an incomplete or inaccurate representation.

What's next:

Fans can anticipate the F1 25 expansion to bridge the gap in 2026, offering an updated experience under the new regulations. The real anticipation will build for the 2027 game, as EA Sports aims to deliver a revolutionary F1 gaming experience that takes full advantage of the new technical era. This strategy suggests a long-term commitment to enhancing the franchise's authenticity and gameplay depth.