Key Highlights
- New rear and side lights on F1 cars for 2026.
- RIS (Rear Impact Structure) light indicates energy levels in power units.
- Lateral safety lights activated during spins or accidents, visible from all angles.
- FIA’s Nikolas Tombazis explains the new features’ purposes and benefits.
The New Lights: A Glimpse into 2026 Formula 1 Innovations
Formula 1 is always at the cutting edge of technology, but for the upcoming 2026 season, the changes are not just about speed and performance. They’re also about visibility, safety, and transparency on the track.
The Rear Impact Structure (RIS) Light: A Red Alert for Energy Levels
Located in the center of the car’s rear, this oval-shaped light is not just a decorative addition. It serves as a critical communication tool for drivers following behind. The RIS light can flash red, blue, or even change colors to indicate various conditions.
Nikolas Tombazis, FIA Single Seater Director, explains: “First of all, we’ve got a new specification which means we can change the color. That way, we can give different messages to who’s following.”
Lateral Safety Lights: An Extra Layer of Protection
Another innovation is the lateral safety lights, added to mirror the RIS light’s flashing patterns but always appearing red. These lights are designed specifically for situations where a car has spun or stopped unexpectedly.
Tombazis adds: “They were an idea by the drivers in one of the driver meetings. Basically, they were saying that if a car has spun around in the wet conditions and is sat laterally, you cannot see the rear light because you’re on the side.”
Weight Savings and Practicality
The new design, which saves around 180g in weight, also includes an onboard camera. The RIS light’s redesigned function comes with these practical benefits, making it a necessary upgrade for teams.
A single flash of the RIS indicates that the MGU-K (Motor Generator Unit – Kinetic) is delivering less than its maximum 350kW power. Two flashes denote complete cessation, while multiple quick flashes show recharging during ICE operation. This information can help drivers anticipate their competitors’ strategies and energy management.
Future Prospects: More Colors to Come?
The RIS light’s color-changing capability opens up possibilities for future enhancements. New colors could be introduced in the coming years, potentially providing even more detailed communication on track conditions or car statuses.
For now, though, the focus is on making F1 safer and more transparent. The new lights will provide a clear visual indication of what’s happening behind the scenes—literally.
As the 2026 season kicks off in Australia, expect to see these new lights flash across circuits. They’re not just eye-catching; they’re essential tools for enhancing on-track safety and strategy.
