Source:REUTERS/Amr Alfiky
[Saba Sports News] According to a report from the Italian version of Motorsport, the FIA has recognized the compliance of the combustion chamber technology schemes used by Mercedes and Red Bull. The focus now shifts to how competitors will respond. It is understood that a compression ratio of 16:1 measured during normal temperature testing will be considered legal. As for whether this value increases after the engine heats up, it will not be pursued. This move aligns with the regulatory logic of flexible wing elements: maintaining shape under static load tests while deforming under increased aerodynamic load. Theoretically, an increase in the compression ratio from 16:1 to 18:1 could yield about 15 extra horsepower, potentially shortening lap times by up to 0.3 seconds.
To prevent any single team from dominating under the new engine regulations, the FIA has introduced a mechanism called “Additional Development Upgrade Opportunity” (ADUO) to help those lagging behind narrow the gap. The FIA will conduct special performance checks on internal combustion engines after every six Grand Prix races in the 2026 season. If a certain engine’s power output diverges from the best-performing engine by more than 2%, the manufacturer will receive one upgrade opportunity; if the gap widens to over 4%, they may receive two upgrade licenses.
Informed sources have indicated that, given the lengthy modification process required for six-cylinder engines, Honda, Ferrari, and Audi will not be able to make changes to their combustion chambers before 2027. However, it should be noted that the current engines have not yet passed final certification. Manufacturers still have time before the first Grand Prix of the season to make targeted adjustments, so it is possible that some teams will attempt to catch up.