Gaming giant Electronic Arts (EA) has made a radical decision that has surprised racing simulation enthusiasts. With the announcement that F1 26 has been canceled, the company is taking a break from its long-standing tradition of releasing annual games. This move signals a major strategic shift for the future of the series.

F1 26 has been canceled, so what awaits players?

EA and developer studio Codemasters have confirmed that there will be no new standalone F1 game on shelves in 2026. Instead, the team will release a comprehensive “paid expansion” for the existing title, F1 25. This expansion will include all the new cars, teams, drivers, and changed regulations from the 2026 Formula 1 season.

The main reason behind this decision is the development team’s desire to focus on 2027. Codemasters aims to offer players a completely different experience with “F1 27,” a complete overhaul of the series. Senior Creative Director Lee Mather describes this process as a “strategic reset.” The team will use this one-year hiatus to transition to a new game engine or significantly improve existing technology.

EA’s decision also ends a 17-year tradition in the gaming industry. The series has regularly released a new game every year since 2009. Players will experience the 2026 season through F1 25, but a truly next-generation F1 game will have to wait until 2027.

So, what are your thoughts on the cancellation of F1 26? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!