The FIA has revealed new rules for the 2025 Formula One season. One major and potentially controversial change is the removal of the bonus point for setting the fastest lap during a race. This announcement came ahead of the US Grand Prix.
Many Formula One fans may find this decision surprising. Fastest laps have often been crucial in race-defining moments despite only being around for less than half a decade. Teams have sometimes sacrificed grid positions for a chance to earn that one extra point. Take, for example, Sakhir 2020, when Russell, after a puncture, lost his shot at a podium finish for Mercedes but still pushed for the fastest lap. Or consider Daniel Ricciardo’s last push for the fastest lap at Singapore 2024, potentially his final involvement in the sport.
In addition to removing the fastest lap bonus, teams will now need to field a young driver twice during free practice instead of once. The FIA discussed these changes during a meeting of the World Motor Sport Council, chaired by President Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
Looking ahead to 2026, the FIA plans significant updates to the Technical Regulations. These adjustments will improve aerodynamics while maintaining wake characteristics that promote closer racing. The Sporting Regulations will also be simplified for easier understanding and implementation.
Further updates include managing power unit energy and refining adjustable aerodynamics. Although the cost cap remains unchanged, the handling of exclusions and adjustments will account for inflation and other factors. More updates to the 2026 regulations will follow in the coming months.
For more details on the technical regulations for 2026, click here.
The question of how this will be considered exciting when such a rule leads to teams nearly abandoning positions to secure the fastest lap remains to be seen.
On a side note, what do you think is going to happen this weekend at the U.S. Grand Prix? Let us know on our socials!
