FIA concludes inquiry into F1 turmoil in Malaysia – and discloses forthcoming actions

Firstly, the precise cause has been determined, with the FIA stating: “The review found that some cars operating at low engine RPM in particular sectors of the circuit where a 250kW power cut was enforced suffered a power loss greater than intended, which could not be rectified in those segments.”

A software glitch led the electric motors to enter lockdown mode in the slower sections of the track. With no electric power to counter the turbo lag, there was no response when the drivers pressed the accelerator.

The FIA subsequently stepped in with a swift software update, which was distributed to all teams and manufacturers to implement prior to the restart. The emergency measure involved lifting the restrictions associated with the 250kW limit in specific minisectors where the issue arose.

The same provisional solution will be applied in Singapore if similar weather conditions are anticipated, as confirmed by the FIA.

Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari

“Consequently, the setup used for the Sepang event will be reinstated for the Singapore Grand Prix should similar weather conditions arise. Furthermore, an additional update to the wet weather software will be introduced for the United States Grand Prix on October 25.”

This indicates that the remedy will come in two phases: a repetition of the emergency fix this race weekend, followed by a more durable update to the wet-weather software ahead of the race in Austin.

Tombazis confirmed on Sunday that the specific issue encountered in Malaysia will not recur, although he could not assure that no new glitches would surface with the highly intricate 2026 power units.

“Clearly, that was a significant critical issue, and we must ensure it is avoided. But can I guarantee it will never happen again? This particular problem, yes. A different issue, no. However, we will strive to prevent it, of course,” Tombazis stated.

The FIA's single-seater director also indicated that the software had not undergone adequate testing due to the limited wet-weather running in 2026, which meant the FIA was unable to avert the situation.

However, the governing body has now clarified that the software was indeed tested during the opening practice sessions for the Belgian and Dutch Grands Prix, but the issue did not emerge during those times.

Carlos Sainz, Williams

This is logically because the cars were completing laps at standard speeds during those sessions and did not reach the extremely low speeds experienced behind the safety car in Malaysia.

For exactly that reason, the FIA will also collaborate with teams and manufacturers to seek improvements in the software testing process, as indicated in the statement.

“The review also suggested that measures be established for software testing, acknowledging that testing opportunities are limited, to ensure it is as robust as possible.

“The FIA, in conjunction with the teams and Power Unit Manufacturers (PUMs), will continue to enhance Power Unit software testing and verification capabilities, improving the overall validation process through independent assessment and collaborative feedback, including insights from the supplier of the standardized Electronics Control Unit (ECU).”