The FIA’s new rules on tyres for 2026 dominate the debate leading into next season. The Federation has decided to change the regulations regarding tyre temperature control. “We identified ambiguities that could lead to unintended advantages,” the FIA stated, referring also to McLaren’s controversial tyre management.
Over the past two years, McLaren has faced suspicions regarding tyre cooling even in hot track conditions. Some rivals have hinted at possible foul play. However, the FIA thoroughly analysed the behaviour of the Woking-based team and concluded: “No violations were found; McLaren acted according to the existing rules.”
The issue lay in Article 10.8.3. Previously, it banned any system that altered the temperature of brakes or hubs beyond ambient levels, with the exception of tyre blankets. Now, the FIA has clarified: “Any device used to heat, cool, or maintain the temperature of the wheels, including hubs and brakes, is prohibited, except for specific stated exceptions.”
Where does the change come from?
This rewording stems from suspicions that some teams, including McLaren, were exploiting grey areas in the regulations. “The changes are meant to prevent creative interpretations and ensure fairness,” the FIA explained after the World Motor Sport Council. Rivals like Red Bull, however, fear the move could limit legitimate technical innovation.
At the same time, Article 3.17.1 has also been updated. It now requires that suspension profiles be “internally sealed,” blocking any airflow to the wheels. This move definitively shuts the door on cooling strategies based on hidden aerodynamics. A hard blow to those who had devised clever and legal solutions.
McLaren, which until now has dominated by operating at the edge of the regulations, could lose ground. “They risk penalising those who have worked better, just to help others catch up,” some analysts say. The FIA’s tyre rules could, therefore, change the pecking order on track and open a new front in the debate on fairness in Formula 1.
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