The 2026 Formula 1 season is gearing up to be a contentious one, with Mercedes and Red Bull already exploiting a grey area in the engine development regulations. The two teams have found a way to achieve a higher compression ratio while on track, despite the regulations stating a maximum ratio of 16.0. This is done by utilizing thermal expansion, which occurs when the cars are in motion and temperatures increase. The method used to measure compression ratio is done when the cars are static, allowing Mercedes and Red Bull to technically comply with the regulations while still achieving a higher ratio on track.
The other engine manufacturers, including Ferrari, Honda, and Audi, are not pleased with this development and have written a joint letter to the FIA seeking clarification. They argue that this trick violates the spirit of the regulations and could give Mercedes and Red Bull an unfair advantage. The FIA’s response to this letter will be crucial, as it could have significant implications for the upcoming season.
If the FIA permits this use of thermal expansion, it could provide Mercedes and Red Bull with a crucial edge, potentially gaining them a few tenths per lap. However, this would not sit well with the other manufacturers, who would see it as a violation of the regulations. On the other hand, if the FIA decides to alter the regulations to explicitly ban this trick, it would have a disastrous impact on Mercedes and Red Bull, including Mercedes’ three customer teams.
The situation is further complicated by the fact that pre-season testing is just weeks away, leaving little time for teams to make adjustments. The FIA’s decision will have a significant impact on the balance of power in the 2026 season, and could potentially lead to protests and further controversy. This saga is a reminder of the intense politics and regulatory interpretations that define Formula 1, and it is likely that similar stories will continue to emerge throughout the season.
The key issue at hand is the interpretation of the regulations, specifically section C.1.5, which states that Formula 1 cars must comply with the regulations in their entirety at all times during a competition. The other manufacturers will argue that Mercedes and Red Bull’s use of thermal expansion is a violation of this regulation, and that it could give them an unfair advantage. The FIA’s response will be closely watched, and could set the tone for the rest of the season. Ultimately, the outcome of this situation will have a significant impact on the competitiveness of the 2026 season, and could potentially shape the championship landscape.