Manual Override:
The New "Overtake Button"
DRS is gone as an overtaking tool. In its place comes a strategic boost of electrical power known as Manual Override.
Replacing DRS
For over a decade, the Drag Reduction System (DRS) was the primary way to overtake. It worked by opening a flap in the rear wing to reduce drag.
In 2026, the "Low Drag" mode (X-Mode) is available to everyone on the straights to save energy. So, to help cars overtake, F1 has introduced a new system based on the engine, not the aerodynamics.
How It Works
The 2026 Power Unit relies heavily on its 350kW electric motor. At very high speeds (above 290 km/h), the standard energy deployment begins to taper off—the car effectively runs out of electric puff to save battery.
Manual Override changes this profile.
Leading Car
Power tapers off after 290 km/h.
Standard Deployment Profile
Chasing Car (Boost)
Full 350kW power continues up to 337 km/h.
Boosted Deployment Profile
How Is It Different From Push-to-Pass?
In IndyCar's "Push-to-Pass", the driver presses a button to get extra horsepower for a limited time (e.g., 20 seconds).
Manual Override is different because it is speed-dependent. It doesn't just give you more power everywhere. It specifically fills in the "power gap" at high speeds (above 290 km/h) where the leading car is losing electrical support. It is designed to help you complete a move at the end of a straight, not just drive faster generally.
Note: Exact speed thresholds (290 km/h vs 337 km/h) may be adjusted by the FIA before 2026 to ensure the racing is balanced.
The Rules of Engagement
Similar to DRS, a driver must be within a certain time gap (likely 1 second) of the car ahead at a detection point.
The chasing car gets significantly more horsepower at the end of the straight than the leading car.
Drivers will need to decide when to use their battery energy. Using MOM drains the battery faster.