FIA says 2026 package is solid, extends Miami FP1 to 90 minutes – roundup

The FIA defended the 2026 rule set as sound, pushing back against Max Verstappen’s criticism and extended Miami GP’s practice to 90 minutes. Zak Brown praised Christian Horner’s return and emphasized Andrea Stella’s key role at McLaren.

Why it matters:

• Stability of the 2026 regulations underpins team development budgets and engine strategies, easing planning for the new era.
• A 90‑minute FP1 at Miami gives drivers extra time to dial in new aero and power‑unit limits on a sprint weekend.

The details:

• FIA single‑seater director Nikolas Tombazis called the 2026 rules ‘fundamentally a good package’ and said only routine tweaks are planned, directly rebutting Verstappen’s claim.
• The FIA confirmed Miami’s only FP1 will run 90 minutes instead of the usual 60, a change not driven solely by the new regulations.
• Zak Brown backed Christian Horner’s return, saying his personality lifts F1, and called Andrea Stella the ‘glue’ keeping McLaren together amid staff changes.

What's next:

• The FIA will keep refining the 2026 package through the rest of 2024, with a full technical review slated for the off‑season.
• Miami’s longer FP1 will serve as data for future sprint‑weekend formats, possibly reshaping practice lengths elsewhere.