F1 to shorten multiple Grands Prix in 2027 to accommodate engine changes

Several Grands Prix will be shorter in 2027 than this season. The FIA, teams, and Formula 1 have reached an agreement to trim a few laps at circuits with high fuel consumption, GPblog understands. This move is a first step to secure support for a broader engine modification package.

Why it matters:

The change enables teams to reuse their 2026 chassis without needing larger fuel tanks, cutting costs and simplifying the transition. It also paves the way for a revised 60/40 split between the internal combustion engine and battery, a shift aimed at improving the sport's power unit roadmap.

The details:

• After the Miami Grand Prix, teams and the FIA agreed to adjust the power unit split from 50/50 to 60/40, requiring higher fuel flow rates.
• To avoid exceeding fuel tank capacity on existing chassis, selected races will be shortened by one or two laps, or the formation lap trimmed.
• Racing Bulls team principal Alan Permane confirmed the arrangement: "If anyone wanted to carry their chassis over and that wasn’t big enough to do the 310k race, we would look at selective races and shorten them."
• McLaren boss Andrea Stella called the proposal "for the good of the sport" and urged cooperation, though Ferrari and Audi remain opposed due to costs and the ADUO system.

What's next:

The shortened races are expected to be confirmed as part of the 2027 calendar. Ferrari and Audi's resistance could still delay the full engine adjustment, with some manufacturers pushing for changes only in 2028. The FIA and teams hope to finalize the package in the coming months.