F1's hidden fuel war: the 'boring' topic that could define its new era

Formula 1's 2026 overhaul introduces a mandate for 100% sustainable fuel derived from non-fossil feedstocks, marking a significant shift in motor sport's energy transition. This ambitious change requires new engineering, chemistry, economics, and industrial partnerships, with teams keeping their fuel blends tightly guarded as competitive secrets. The transition poses technical challenges, including the need to replicate fossil fuel's characteristics with sustainable alternatives, and economic hurdles due to the high costs of production. Despite these challenges, the move to sustainable fuel is a key part of F1's sustainability goals, with the championship acting as a proving ground for future applications in aviation, freight, and road transport.