How Will F1 Qualifying Change In 2026 After Cadillac's Inclusion?

F1 qualifying in 2026 explained: discover new rules, Cadillac's entry, and how the knockout format works with 22 cars on the grid.

Summarized by AI ⓘ

What is the story about?

Formula 1 qualifying remains the purest test of speed: one lap, no excuses, cars and drivers pushed to the absolute limit.

But with 11 teams and 22 cars on the grid in 2026, the format has slightly evolved, making it more confusing than ever for newcomers.

Here’s a simple breakdown of how F1 qualifying works in 2026, including what changes with Cadillac joining the grid.

Qualifying is split into three knockout sessions, lasting one hour in total:

Each session progressively eliminates drivers until only the fastest 10 remain to fight for pole position.

Q1: First Cut (22 → 16 Drivers)

In Q1, all 22 drivers take to the track.

What’s new for 2026?

Previously, only five drivers were eliminated in Q1. With Cadillac adding two cars, the field has grown — and

so has the first cut.

The remaining 16 drivers move on, with all lap times reset.

Q2: Narrowing the Field (16 → 10 Drivers)

Q2 trims the pack further.

Once again, lap times are reset before the final session.

Q3: The Pole Shootout (Top 10)

The fastest 10 drivers battle it out over 12 minutes in Q3.

Qualifying also marks the start of parc fermé.

Once qualifying begins:

If a team breaks parc fermé rules, the penalty is severe: a pit lane start for the race.

That’s why getting the setup right before qualifying is absolutely critical.

Old rule (pre-2022):

The top 10 drivers had to start the race on the tyres used for their fastest Q2 lap
This sometimes made starting 11th strategically better than 10th

Current rule (still valid in 2026):

Free tyre choice for all drivers
No tyre restrictions tied to qualifying performance
This change has simplified strategy and removed artificial incentives to miss Q3