Formula 1 will test a new start procedure this weekend to avoid any issues related to the new 2026 engines.
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Formula 1 is introducing a significant change to the start procedure this weekend for the 2026 Australian Grand Prix. This decision was confirmed by race director Rui Marques, following concerns that emerged during winter testing.
The new power units introduced in 2026 have profoundly changed engine behavior at the start. The removal of the MGU‑H system means the turbo can no longer instantly spool up using recovered energy.
Result: drivers must now maintain high engine revs for longer to avoid turbo lag, the reaction time where power does not arrive immediately when accelerating.
A problem identified during Bahrain testing
This technical peculiarity raised several concerns during pre-season testing held at the Sakhir circuit. Engineers quickly realized that a driver poorly prepared at the moment the lights go out could suffer a significant delay at the start.
The situation is even more delicate for drivers positioned at the back of the grid. They have a very limited amount of time between the moment they stop in their grid slot and when the light sequence begins.
To avoid any confusion or failed starts that could create a safety risk, the FIA tested a specific solution during the Bahrain tests.
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A blue panel before the light sequence
The new device introduces an additional step just before the classic five red lights procedure. Once all cars are stopped on the grid, a flashing blue panel will appear for five seconds.
During this period, drivers will be able to stabilize their engine revs and properly prepare their start. Only then will the traditional light sequence begin.
In his official notes for the Australian weekend, Rui Marques details the procedure: “To ensure the safe and orderly conduct of the competition, once all cars have returned to the grid at the end of the formation lap or laps, the grid light panels will illuminate in flashing blue for five seconds and the information panel will display the message ‘Pre-Start’, after which the light sequence provided for in the regulations will begin.”
An additional restriction on active aerodynamics
Another specific rule will be applied at the start of the race. Drivers will not be able to use Straight Mode, the low-drag configuration linked to the new active aerodynamics, before the first corner of the first lap.
Specifically, this mode can only be activated after Turn 1 to avoid overly sudden acceleration as soon as the lights go out and to ensure a certain level of fairness among competitors.
This weekend in Melbourne will therefore serve as a real full-scale test for this new procedure. If it proves effective and safe, it could become a standard for the rest of the 2026 season.
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