F1 promises to shake up racing with its dramatic regulations changes coming for the 2026 season. With aerodynamic changes decreasing downforce and drag; powertrain changes with sustainable fuels and changes to electric utilisation, not to mention significant changes to tyres and grip levels – there is a significant challenge to F1 competitors in 2026.
In this exclusive behind-the-scenes video, Gary Paffett—ex-F1 test driver, 2x DTM Champion, Sporting Director at NEOM McLaren Formula E, and former McLaren Autosport Young Driver of the Year—joins Canopy Simulations and Dynisma to offer a unique chance to see the impact of these changes from inside one of the world’s most advanced motion simulators.
Stepping into the DMG-1 driving simulator, trusted by leading teams competing in Formula 1, Formula E, WEC, IMSA and more, Paffett compares models from 2025 and 2026 regulations using Canopy’s vehicle simulations and lap time analytics.
A quick roundup of the changes for the 2026 F1 season:
- Powertrain: Sustainable fuels, reduced fuel limits, more energy recovery and electric deployment
- Aerodynamics: 30% less downforce and 55% less drag
- Tyres: 30mm narrower tyres mean less grip and a narrower setup window
- Chassis & Weight: Reduced mass, new car dynamics, and rebalanced handling
Watch this video to see Paffett’s reaction to the new models compared with the current season’s, and what impact he expects these changes to make to the racing. Dynisma Founder and CTO, Ash Warne shares how such advanced motion simulation technology helps teams and drivers prepare for such significant changes to the sport.
About Canopy Simulations
Canopy Simulations is a motorsport simulation and analytics company providing lap time simulation, Driver-in-the-Loop (DiL) model integration, and vehicle development tools. Learn more at www.canopysimulations.com
About Dynisma
Dynisma is a global leader in engineering world-class full-motion simulators, utilising its unique patented motion technology across a range of simulators trusted by the world’s top automotive and motorsport brands. Engineered at the highest levels of motorsport, Dynisma's motion generators deliver more data to the driver, faster than any other simulator on the market, offering an unparalleled level of real-world correlation thanks to its high bandwidth, ultra-low latency, and large excursion motion capabilities.
Since its founding in 2017 by Ashley Warne, an experienced F1 simulator engineer who previously led simulator development for Ferrari and McLaren, Dynisma has grown into a global force. Operating from a state-of-the-art Manufacturing and Technology Campus in Bristol, UK, the company now employs over 100 experts, many of whom have worked at the highest levels of Formula 1.
The team is dedicated to delivering excellence and helping a global customer base unlock the full potential of high-performance motion simulation. With customers racing in Formula 1, Formula 2, WEC, IMSA, and Formula E, Dynisma’s Driver-in-the-Loop simulators are being utilised across multiple motorsport categories, providing the highest levels of correlation and performance for race teams and manufacturers alike.
Press Contacts
Laura Simpson
T: +44 (0)7944 575 292
E: laura@influenceassociates.com
Sheryll Goddard
Head Of Marketing, Dynisma
E: Sheryll.Goddard@dynisma.com
