Free extension for sports fans

Lando Norris would never have won the 2025 title under F1’s new Grand Prix format for 2027

In light of F1’s new format for Grands Prix in 2027, F1 Oversteer has taken a look at how prior results would have been affected…

Published: Tuesday, 22 September 2026 at 11:00 AM
Lando Norris would never have won the 2025 title under F1’s new Grand Prix format for 2027
Key Things to Know
  • The F1 Commission agreed to reduce Grand Prix race distances from 305km to 290km for 2027.
  • The distance reduction cuts approximately three to four laps per race to address fuel tank concerns.
  • The proposed rule change is currently pending approval from the FIA World Motor Sport Council.
The Story in 60 Seconds

The Formula 1 Commission has agreed to shorten standard Grand Prix race distances from 305km to 290km starting in 2027, according to a report from Motorsport.com. The proposed rule change, which is pending formal approval from the FIA World Motor Sport Council, will cut approximately three to four laps per race to address team concerns regarding fuel tank sizes under new 2027 power unit regulations.

An analysis of the format change indicates that past championships would have yielded altered outcomes, including the 2025 title. Under shortened race distances, McLaren driver Lando Norris would not have gained pivotal points from a penultimate-lap pass on Kimi Antonelli in Qatar, which would have resulted in Red Bull's Max Verstappen winning the 2025 championship instead.

Never Miss a Sports Update

Get the latest sports news and top stories from MySportsTab delivered straight to your inbox.

No spam. Just the latest sports news and updates.