In a context of regulatory changes, the world of Formula 1 is shaken by rumours regarding the compression ratio of the engines. Amid unexpected alliances and historical rivalries, the duel between Mercedes and its competitors promises to be captivating. As the 2026 season approaches, the pressure mounts and the challenges are higher than ever.
A controversial regulation
Within the framework of the new regulation, the debate over the compression ratio has ignited before a single metre has been covered with the F1 cars of 2026. The ratio between the cylinder volume with the piston at the bottom and at the top of its stroke was 18:1 in the previous era, but it has been reduced to 16:1 for 2026, partly to be more accessible to newcomers. A modification that could alter the balance of power in play.
Worrying hallway noises
The competition has heard rumours that Mercedes was managing to comply with the 16:1 compression ratio during the static tests, as prescribed by the regulations, but that it could achieve a higher ratio at warmer temperatures when the car was in motion. This raises questions about the transparency and fairness of the tests, and Audi, Ferrari and Honda were quick to react.
These three manufacturers jointly sent a letter to the FIA requesting clarifications. After an initial meeting of technical experts on 22 January, the federation did not seem to consider intervening immediately. However, the tension is palpable and discussions continue, as indicated by the recent meeting of the advisory committee on power units (“PUAC”, according to its acronym in English).
Red Bull at the centre of the debate
Max Verstappen (Red Bull) at the private tests in Barcelona
However, all this is easier said than done. A qualified majority is required for any procedural modification. This means that four of the five engine manufacturers, the FIA and F1 must agree. In this regard, Red Bull Powertrains occupies a key position.
The initial letter from Audi, Ferrari and Honda quickly showed that three of the five engine manufacturers were pushing for a change. Red Bull, on the other hand, has also been associated with possible violations of the regulations regarding the engines, but this image has been nuanced in recent weeks. It has been suggested that Red Bull may have knowledge of Mercedes’ solution, but would not necessarily oppose an intervention. This could be the case if it considers that its own gains are less important than those of a major competitor, in this case Mercedes and its three customer teams (McLaren, Williams and Alpine).
The interests of the FIA and F1
Beyond Red Bull’s position, those of the FIA and F1 are crucial. Both organisations generally vote in block when it comes to technical issues. As mentioned, the FIA initially saw no reason to intervene, but after yesterday’s meeting, the federation’s new position is now awaited.
When asked about this issue, a spokesperson for the FIA stated that the matter was still under internal discussion and that an update would not be communicated until later. The situation remains confusing, and each manufacturer is closely watching the movements of the others.
Time is running out before the deadline…
The preparations for the Audi F1 engine.
If the control procedure is revised, this could have considerable consequences. It would not only affect the sporting landscape but would also be closely related to the homologation date. The 2026 engines must be homologated by 1 March, leaving little to no time for adjustments if necessary, especially since modifications related to engines generally require a long implementation lead time.
And there are talks of eight cars on a grid of 22, including those of the reigning world champions, McLaren. Toto Wolff, in any case, has clearly expressed his opinion in recent days. The head of the Mercedes team stated before the start of the season that the other manufacturers needed to “get their act together”.
“I simply do not understand how some teams focus more on others and continue to defend a case that is very clear and transparent. Communication with the FIA has been very positive from start to finish, and not only about the compression ratio, but also about other issues.”
“At this specific point, what the regulations say is clear. The standard procedures are very clear about all engines, even elsewhere than in Formula 1. Get your act together!”
“The power unit is the same. The power unit corresponds to how the regulations are written. The power unit corresponds to how the checks are carried out.”
In a climate where alliances are formed and dissolved, it will be interesting to see how this saga evolves in the coming weeks. The battle for supremacy in Formula 1 is fought on multiple fronts, and every detail counts.
