F1 scraps 50/50 combustion-electric power split from 2027, shifts to 58/42

Formula 1 will abandon the 50/50 power split between internal combustion engines (ICE) and energy recovery systems starting in 2027, the FIA confirmed on Wednesday. The move follows widespread driver criticism over energy management demands under the 2026 regulations. Instead of an even split, F1 will adopt a 58/42 ratio in 2027, with 420kW (563hp) from the ICE and 300kW (402hp) from the MGU-K.

This shifts further toward combustion power, aiming for a 60/40 split by 2028. Peak harvesting power will rise by 25kW over the next two seasons, reaching 400kW by 2028. The changes are expected to reduce lift-and-coasting and super-clipping, easing driver workload.

The adjustments were not universally welcomed; power unit manufacturers raised concerns over feasibility and timing, particularly around fuel flow limits. A 5% increase in fuel flow is planned for 2026, with a 13% hike in 2028 to support higher combustion output. The shift comes amid growing driver frustration over safety and performance constraints, amplified after Oliver Bearman’s 50G crash at the Japanese Grand Prix.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, long opposed to the 50/50 experiment, has seized on the moment to push for a return to naturally aspirated V8 engines—a proposal now gaining traction with fans. However, his broader agenda includes removing FIA term limits to extend his own tenure, drawing criticism over authoritarian tendencies and past conflicts with teams and drivers.