Archive · 16 Nov 2025
F1 Commission Approves New Livery Rules for Visibility, Bars Bare Carbon
Imagine race cars are like superheroes with special outfits.
Some teams have been wearing very plain outfits made of just plain black material (called carbon fibre) to be lighter and faster.
But this makes it hard to tell the cars apart, and it's tough to see them clearly on the track.
So, the people in charge of Formula 1 (the FIA) have made a new rule.
Starting in 2026, cars must have at least a little over half of their bodies covered in colorful paint or stickers.
This way, they'll look more distinct and be easier to spot during a race.
Also, drivers can now pick a new lucky number for their car during their career if they want to, instead of being stuck with the first one they got.
FIA has approved new F1 livery rules for the 2026 season.
Cars must feature painted or stickered liveries on at least 55% of their surface area.
The rule aims to increase car visibility and prevent extensive use of bare carbon fibre.
Drivers will be permitted to change their permanent racing numbers throughout their careers.
Further regulatory refinements will be submitted to the World Motor Sport Council.
- Who
- The FIA's Formula One Commission
- What
- Approved new livery regulations requiring at least 55% of car surfaces to be painted or stickered, and allowed drivers to change their career racing numbers.
- When
- Approved recently, effective for the 2026 season.
- Where
- During a meeting in London at the International Automobile Federation offices.
- Why
- To improve on-track visibility and visual differentiation between cars, and to prevent teams from using bare carbon fibre solely for weight saving.
For the new rules
Potential Concerns
Bare Carbon Fiber Designs
For the new rules
Teams have increasingly used bare carbon fibre to save weight, making cars look similar and hindering on-track visibility.
Potential Concerns
While the rule aims for visual differentiation, it might limit design freedom and force teams to carry extra weight if they cannot optimize paint schemes.
Car Visibility
For the new rules
Increased painted surfaces will improve on-track visibility and differentiation between cars, enhancing the spectator experience.
Potential Concerns
Spectators may prefer the aesthetic of bare carbon fibre, and focusing on paint as the primary differentiator might overlook other visual cues.
- Regulation Change
- Minimum 55% of car surface area (side/above) must be covered by paint or stickers, not bare carbon fibre.
- Effective Date
- 2026 Formula 1 season
- Reasoning
- To improve on-track visibility and visual differentiation between cars.
- Driver Number Rule Change
- Drivers can now change racing numbers during their careers.
- Other Discussions
- Mandatory two pit stops discussed, to be continued next year.