Ferrari is convinced that both Mercedes and Red Bull are taking advantage of a gap in the 2026 Formula 1 engine rules.
Teams believe that the two manufacturers can exceed the maximum fuel compression ratio of 16:1 while on track, giving them extra horsepower. However, when the cars are shut down and inspected by the FIA, they still meet the necessary checks.
Although no rules have technically been broken, this is being seen as a move against what was intended by those writing them. The gain from this trick has been estimated at around three-tenths of a second per lap.
Teams got together on Thursday to talk about it, as reported by The Race. They managed to agree on how to check compression ratios in real time but didn’t commit to when such measures might come into play.
Mercedes and Red Bull 2026 Engine Controversy Puts Ferrari on Back Foot
Ferrari claims Mercedes and Red Bull are using a workaround in the new engine regulations. Even though their power units meet the 16:1 fuel compression limit when checked off-track, there’s concern that they exceed this limit during races.
While the FIA has not yet formally accused either team, there’s pressure to address the matter before it impacts competition. Some teams have even called for rule changes ahead of 2027 to prevent any one side from gaining an unfair advantage.
On Thursday, team representatives met to discuss possible solutions. According to The Race, they agreed on ways to better measure fuel compression in real-time but didn’t set a deadline for implementation.
Ferrari may not have enough votes to push through technical changes
Any change will need approval from the F1 Commission, which could be difficult given how many teams use engines supplied by Mercedes or Red Bull. McLaren, Williams and Alpine all have ties with Mercedes, while Racing Bulls are linked with Red Bull.
The issue highlights just how tricky it can be for rival teams like Ferrari to push through regulatory changes when so much of the grid is already aligned with their opponents. Over half of the field uses either a Mercedes or Red Bull power unit.
This isn’t unusual given their resources and track record – especially since McLaren and Williams are signed up through at least 2030. Meanwhile, Racing Bulls’ connection as Red Bull’s sister team gives them another natural ally within the grid.
Australian GP protests may force FIA action in fuel compression dispute
Mercedes have received written approval from the FIA, but the sport’s governing body are coming under increasing pressure.
Audi have made it clear they won’t accept that stance if nothing is done before the end of the season. There’s already talk of protests being filed early on. Adrian Newey is reportedly furious, so Aston Martin might be among those to formally challenge it.
Mattia Binotto, however, isn’t sure a protest would hold up since teams aren’t exactly clear on what they’d be protesting. But if enough teams start questioning race results and championship legitimacy, it could force the FIA to move away from their hands-off approach.
Read More Like This:
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