Overview
- German media report that Mercedes and Red Bull may exploit a compression‑ratio interpretation worth an estimated 15bhp, and rivals are urging the FIA to clarify the rule before the season starts.
- Teams and drivers expect any advantage to surface quickly in private running and pre‑season tests, with a protest and potential technical directive viewed as possible outcomes if a grey area is confirmed.
- Red Bull’s first in‑house power unit with Ford support draws mixed signals, as Laurent Mekies warns of “very tough months” while Max Verstappen’s manager says he is hearing good internal feedback without a firm reference point.
- Perception of Mercedes as early favorites persists after a 2026 PU sound teaser and reported dyno work, yet Toto Wolff stresses uncertainty over targets and Williams boss James Vowles cautions that no manufacturer truly knows the pecking order.
- Ferrari’s Fred Vasseur says upgrade timing under the cost cap—including freight now inside the cap—will decide the 2026 development race, with the FIA’s ADUO scheme available to help lagging power unit suppliers, as drivers like Lewis Hamilton flag drivability concerns, especially in the wet.