F1 2026: Concerns Rise Over New Start Procedures Following Bahrain Testing

The introduction of new power unit regulations for the 2026 Formula 1 season has brought with it a new set of challenges, particularly regarding the race start procedure. Following pre-season testing in Bahrain, concerns have been raised about the potential for dangerous situations due to varying speeds and readiness among drivers, prompting the FIA to investigate potential adjustments before the season opener in Melbourne.

The Challenge of Starts Without MGU-H

A key change for 2026 is the elimination of the MGU-H (Motor Generator Unit – Heat), which previously assisted in maintaining turbocharger speed. This has altered how drivers prepare for the start of a race. Previously, the MGU-H allowed drivers to retain the turbo running, ensuring immediate boost pressure. Now, drivers must rely on passing exhaust gas through the turbo to maintain speed.

As McLaren’s performance technical director Mark Temple explained, “In this year’s cars, you essentially have to keep the turbo turning by passing gas through the turbo.” This process involves charging the battery against the engine to maintain turbo speed while on the formation lap.

Battery Management on the Formation Lap

Effective battery management is now crucial. Drivers must carefully balance draining and charging the battery during the formation lap. A fully charged battery is no longer ideal for the start, as it limits the ability to effectively charge during the initial phase of the race. Conversely, a battery that is too depleted can hinder performance.

Temple detailed the process: “It’s critical to drive the lap in such a way that you drain the battery at the same rate as you add energy to it. You achieve this through the right combination of acceleration and braking phases.” Drivers have access to real-time data on their steering wheel displays to monitor and adjust their driving accordingly.

Tolerance for Turbo Speed

Achieving the optimal turbo speed on the starting grid is also critical. While precision isn’t paramount, drivers must operate within a specific range. Temple noted that the acceptable tolerance is “definitely” larger than 500 revolutions per minute, but being within the correct range is essential for a successful launch.

“If the turbo was only turning at a fifth of the speed it would normally be in a corner, the result would be pretty bad,” Temple stated. The system must account for variations in traffic light sequences and individual driving styles.

FIA Response and Testing

Concerns were initially raised by McLaren team boss Andrea Stella after a test start at the end of Bahrain testing. In response, the FIA’s advisory committee, the Formula 1 Power Unit Advisory Committee, began testing different timing sequences at the end of each day of testing in Bahrain to gather data and feedback. Total Motorsport reports that a joint attempt was made to start at the traffic lights on the first day of testing, which appeared to be successful.

Temple expressed a cautiously optimistic view: “From what I saw, everything seemed pretty normal and sensible… If everyone is ready, everyone knows what to do and the procedures are followed, I don’t see it as a big problem.”

Looking Ahead to Melbourne

The teams and the FIA will continue to analyze the data collected during the Bahrain test and refine the start procedure before the first race of the season in Melbourne. The goal is to ensure both competitive racing and driver safety as Formula 1 enters this new era of regulations. Formula 1 provides live coverage and updates on the testing process.