Overview
- This week the FIA applied its first ADUO (Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities) assessment and, using an ICE‑only metric, identified Red Bull’s V6 internal‑combustion engine as the reference motor.
- Under the ADUO outcome Mercedes was allowed one ICE upgrade while Ferrari, Audi and Honda were allotted two each and Red Bull was barred from further ICE development.
- Stakeholders also agreed a two‑stage rule change to shift power back to the combustion engine: a 5% fuel‑flow rise for 2027 raising ICE peak from 400 kW to about 420 kW and a larger 13% uplift targeted for 2028 to about 450 kW, with MGU‑K peak power reduced to 300 kW and recuperation limits increased.
- Teams are already sequencing work around the decisions, with Aston Martin and Honda aiming for a combined PU and aero package at Spa while McLaren is focused on fixing power‑unit reliability before chasing performance gains.
- The ADUO’s ICE‑only measurement, pending public release of the FIA’s metrics and WMSC ratification on 23 June, leaves a gap between the rule’s intent to curb single‑maker dominance and the practical reality that homologation, budget caps and test schedules mean any performance shifts will take months and could heighten political friction between manufacturers.