The FIA shared details of latest F1 Commission meet where they discussed about 2026, as they were provided with latest fan figures.
With barely days left for the Belgian GP, the F1 Commission met in London management office for latest round of discusses on the 2026 regulations whether technical, sporting and operational. The meet was chaired by Sefano Domenicali and FIA single-seater head Nikolas Tombazis.
Onto a major topic in terms of the fees for protests made by F1 teams on FIA decisions, they started the discussion on adjustments to be made on the fees charged by the governing body. They also threw plans of potential fee for investigations, after team officials voiced opinion on frivolous protests.
Red Bull’s protest against FIA decision in Canada, where they argued that Mercedes’ George Russell seemingly did not follow rules, started a discussion among F1 team bosses and drivers, about team protests not costing as much and them wasting everybody’s time, knowing the result.
In another surprise discussion on commercial matters, the Formula One Management shared figures of fan growth of the sport. They noted that the global fanbase stood at 827 million, with a 10% year-on-year increase, which includes growth in USA by 11% to be 52 million.
The young fans are chiming in as well, with 43% now are under the age of 35-years and 42% are females. The combined social media following figures stood at 106 million when compared to 18 million in 2018. The F1 movie was noted as a positive factor in the growth, as they also highlighted sustainable steps.
Here’s what they said –
The FIA updated the teams on progress of the 2026 technical, sporting and operational regulations.
General sporting matters:
It was agreed that the deposit fees for protests, appeals and right of reviews should be evaluated with a view to those fees being adjusted. The introduction of a fee for investigations was also discussed.
Commercial matters:
Formula One Management provided an update to the Commission on the growth and momentum of the sport highlighting that the global fanbase now stood at 827 million with a year-on-year increase of over 10% including growth in the US fanbase of 52 million, up +11% year-on-year.
The fans following Formula 1 continue to get younger, with 43% of the total fan base being under 35 years and 42% of the fans are female. Alongside this there has been significant growth in social media platforms with a combined following of 106 million compared to 18 million in 2018 and positive increases in TV audiences for the 2025 season so far.
The positive impact of the F1 Movie was highlighted showing the success of the first few weeks following release and the contribution this project will create to bring new fans into the sport. Commercial momentum was also presented highlighting the new partners that have joined Formula 1 across a range of areas in 2025 and renewals of existing and long-term partners, including several race promotion contracts. The importance of achieving long-term sustainability of the sport was discussed and agreed by all stakeholders.
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