According to Sky Sports, there is set to be a slight reduction in the length of Formula 1 races from the 2027 season, with the FIA confirming the change.
The sport’s decision-makers agreed to reduce Grand Prix distances from 305km to 290km at a meeting of the F1 Commission in London on Monday. The reduction will mean two to three fewer laps, depending on the circuit.
The change is required because fuel flow rates will be increased next season as part of measures being introduced by the FIA to optimise the all-new regulations that came into effect at the start of 2026.
The FIA said: “In line with the refinements to the Power Unit regulations to be introduced in 2027 on fuel flow, a reduction in the total race distance from 305km to 290km was approved, corresponding to a reduction of two or three laps.”
The decision still requires approval from the World Motor Sport Council, although this is expected to be a formality.
The FIA also announced slight changes to protocols for races affected by rain or other factors. The three-hour limit, including interruptions, from the start to the finish of a race will be removed, while a “hard stop” time for the end of any racing activity will be introduced.
However, the limit of two hours of actual racing will remain. The FIA said the decisions were taken “to ensure that the spectators have the best possible chance to enjoy a full race if disruptions occur.”
It was also confirmed that there will be “greater flexibility to extend Free Practice sessions should they be interrupted.”
Under the current rules, practice sessions can only be extended on Sprint weekends, but the measures may now also be available on a regular schedule.
