Particle.news

F1’s 2026 Cars Debut Mandatory Mirror Hazard Lights at Barcelona Shakedown

The FIA says the side-mounted indicators aim to make sideways or slow cars more visible in spray.

Overview

  • Flashing yellow lights are integrated into the rear-view mirrors as a first-for-F1 safety feature mandated for 2026.
  • The system is intended to complement the existing rear red rain light by improving visibility from more angles.
  • FIA technical regulations require two additional side lights, with Nikolas Tombazis citing wet-weather incidents where cars sit laterally to traffic.
  • The lights were observed in use during the private Barcelona test, including on Isack Hadjar’s Red Bull after his crash, with no reported issues.
  • Bernie Collins outlined the visibility benefits on Sky Sports, while Ted Kravitz criticized the flashing mirrors as off-putting.