BREAKING: EA Sports has just announced a significant shift in its F1 gaming franchise, confirming that there will be no standalone F1 26. Instead, F1 25 will serve as a live platform, receiving a comprehensive upgrade for the 2026 FIA Formula One World Championship. This new model marks a pivotal change in how the series will operate moving forward.
The upgrade for 2026 is being positioned as a premium content release, not just a simple patch. Gamers can expect the full lineup of new cars, teams, drivers, and updated sporting regulations that align with the upcoming major rules changes in Formula 1. This transition signifies a strategic reset for the franchise, moving away from the traditional annual release cycle in favor of a more sustainable, live-service approach.
Codemasters’ Senior Creative Director, Lee Mather, emphasized the studio’s “full commitment” to the F1 series, framing this extended development cycle as an opportunity to reimagine the game experience for fans. As a result, F1 25 is not merely a one-time purchase; it will evolve alongside the sport, guiding players through the 2026 regulation changes while the studio develops a ground-up refresh for 2027.
The upcoming title for 2027 is set to deliver a “deeply authentic and innovative” experience, developed in collaboration with Formula One Management and all F1 teams. This ambitious project aims to attract both hardcore simulation enthusiasts and newcomers drawn in by the sport’s rising popularity, fueled by the hit series “Drive to Survive”.
What does this mean for fans? The transition to a live service model will allow for ongoing updates and enhancements, keeping players engaged with the latest content as the sport evolves. As EA Sports and Codemasters prepare for this transformative phase, gamers are urged to stay tuned for more details on the 2026 update and beyond.
For the latest updates, keep an eye on EA Sports’ official channels and gaming news platforms. This development is not just a change in schedule; it’s a redefinition of how F1 gaming will operate in the future.
