Racing enthusiasts are buzzing with the latest update from EA Sports as the beloved game developer has decided to shift gears. The company will not be releasing F1 26, the anticipated next installment in their annual racing game series. Instead, fans can look forward to a new paid expansion for F1 25. This decision marks a significant change in strategy for EA Sports and offers a fresh perspective on the future of their racing franchise.
The Future of F1 Gaming
EA Sports’ decision to forgo F1 26 in favor of an F1 25 expansion represents a new approach. This expansion will incorporate the eleven teams and drivers participating in the 2026 World Championship, aligning with the significant rule changes in the motorsport. The overhaul in the aerodynamic and engine regulations for 2026 aims to enhance the on-track experience, and EA Sports plans to reflect these changes in their game updates.
EA Sports has announced that it will not release F1 26, the next instalment of the annual racing game franchise. Instead, a paid expansion for F1 25 is set to bring fresh content inspired by the 2026 real-life motorsport season. As fans anticipate this expansion, slated for a 2026 announcement, the gaming community is eager to see how these updates will shape their virtual racing experiences.
Looking Ahead to 2027
The anticipation doesn’t stop with the 2026 expansion. EA Sports has also revealed its plans for the next full game release in 2027. Promising a deeply authentic and innovative racing experience, the upcoming title is set to introduce new gameplay elements and enhance the experiences enjoyed by sim racers, both casual and professional. Lee Mather, Senior Creative Director at Codemasters, emphasized the importance of building for the future, highlighting a multi-year plan that aims to elevate the F1 gaming experience.
The Impact of F1 Esports
As the F1 Sim Racing World Championship recently concluded, the sim racing community is eagerly awaiting news about the future of the circuit. Jarno Opmeer, driving for Oracle Red Bull Sim Racing, clinched the title in 2025, reinforcing his status as one of the premier drivers in the realm of F1 Sim Racing. With ten teams actively participating, the sim racing circuit continues to thrive, though uncertainty remains about the potential for an officially backed championship by the motorsport series. Fans and drivers alike await further announcements with bated breath.