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Introduction
Is there going to be F1 26? Since around 2010, when Codemasters fully took over the Formula 1 license, new F1 games have been released every year from 2010 to 2025. The 2026 Formula 1 season has already started from March to December, and fans are looking forward to an F1 26 game.
Usually, EA Sports publishes F1 games every mid-year around June–July. However, this year EA Sports is not releasing F1 26 and is going to break a 15-year tradition. On November 18, 2025, on their official website, they stated that F1 25 will represent both 2025 and 2026, while also mentioning F1 2027.
Why Was F1 26 Cancelled?
EA and Codemasters decided that it was the right move to reset the game. The next game will be released in 2027 as F1 27, which will look and play differently compared to F1 26.
Lee Mather, Senior Creative Director at Codemasters, said that the success of F1 25 was fueled by the passion of the fans and the energy of the sport. Because of the huge growth both on and off the track, this is the perfect time to look ahead and build for the future.
There are still going to be updates, but not a full game this year. Instead, a 2026 expansion will be released, while a full reimagined F1 experience is planned for 2027, aiming to deliver more to players around the world.
Personal Opinion
Nowadays, big companies tend to change small things and release them as a new game. They don’t always see games as something to play—they see them as money-making machines.
Personally, when I saw that F1 26 was cancelled, instead of releasing a brand-new game with major updates, they chose to release an expansion. This works both ways—they are not losing much, but at the same time, they are not making as much either.
I actually appreciate this approach because it is a new way of thinking. I hope other big companies like Call of Duty, WWE, and others start doing the same thing. Instead of releasing a new game every year, they could release expansions, and only launch a new game when there is a complete makeover.
What Replaces F1 26?
F1 25 was a major success. Because of that, the team is focusing on building a paid expansion. Instead of buying a new game, players will have the option to upgrade their existing game.
The new premium expansion will bring players closer to the real F1 sport, with new rules that match real-world changes, updated cars, new teams, and more.
The main feature of the expansion is the new aerodynamic and hybrid engine system. The redesigned F1 cars are lighter than in F1 25, and the power is now split 50% electric and 50% combustion. This changes gameplay significantly, as players must now decide when to charge the battery or deploy full power during races.
This could make the 2026 expansion feel almost like a completely new game.
Pros & Cons of Cancelling F1 26
The pros include better quality, proper adaptation to new regulations, and more innovation instead of releasing a new game with only small changes—something fans have criticized in games like WWE 2K.
The cons include disappointment, potential loss of revenue, risk of losing players, and higher expectations for the next game. However, the loss of revenue could also mean EA is focusing more on making a proper game rather than just making money.
What This Means for the Future (F1 27)
This means that F1 27, coming in 2027, will be a complete reimagining of F1 games. According to Codemasters, F1 27 will be a refreshed experience that looks, feels, and plays differently.
Comparison – Old Strategy vs New Strategy
| Aspect | Old Strategy (Annual Releases) | New Strategy (Skip to F1 27) |
|---|---|---|
| Release Cycle | New game every year | No F1 26, focus on F1 27 |
| Development Time | ~1 year per game | 2+ years and major development |
| Game Quality | Small improvements | Potential for major upgrades |
| Adaptation to Rule Changes | Often rushed | More time |
| Gameplay Innovation | Limited (small yearly tweaks) | Bigger overhaul (engine, physics, modes) |
| Revenue Model | Annual full-price game | Expansion/update + bigger future launch |
| Risk Level | Low risk, predictable | High risk, high reward |
| Player Engagement | Regular but sometimes repetitive | Possible drop in 2026, bigger hype for 2027 |
Final Verdict
Yes, it is disappointing that they are skipping F1 26. But at the same time, this might be what the gaming industry needs. Instead of releasing a new game every year, developers should take more time and deliver something bigger and better.
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