Lighter Formula One cars, with new overtake button, to hit the grid by 2026

Lewis Hamilton's demand for lighter Formula One machinery has been answered following the launch of the sport’s next-generation car.

On the eve of this weekend’s Canadian Grand Prix, F1 provided a glimpse into its future after the concept of a car – which is hoped will provide greater racing from 2026 onwards – was unveiled.

The new, smaller machinery, incorporating a simplified combustion engine using fully sustainable fuels and the introduction of a new overtaking boost button, is set to be 30 kilograms lighter than the sport’s current design.

Hamilton, 39, who will enter his second season with Ferrari when the new technical rules come into force, has repeatedly said F1 cars are too heavy – up from around 600 kilograms when Hamilton started out in 2007 to almost 800kg.

The FIA has now promised a minimum weight of 768kg with the governing body saying a "nimble" car has been at the heart of its new concept.

Another key feature of the proposed cars will be the effective removal of the Drag Reduction System (DRS) to be replaced by a Manual Override Mode. The new technology will provide a driver with an electrical boost to power past a rival.

Among other changes, the 2026 cars are also set to take in active aerodynamics systems, featuring movable front and rear wings, with drivers able to switch between two modes to maximise top speed. Downforce and drag will also be reduced.

"Today, the FIA is defining a hugely exciting future for the pinnacle of motorsport with the launch of a comprehensive new set of regulations for the 2026 FIA Formula One championship and beyond," said FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem.

"Following the publication of 2026 power unit regulations two years ago we have taken the opportunity to redefine the