Overview
- Reports claim Mercedes found a way to momentarily surpass the 16:1 compression limit in the 2026 power unit, with suggested gains of about four tenths per lap, though the claims remain unverified.
- Ferrari, Honda, and Audi have reportedly asked the FIA to prohibit the alleged approach, seeking clarification before the new era begins.
- An FIA spokesperson confirmed a technical-experts meeting for January 22, describing it as a normal step to ensure consistent understanding and application of the regulations.
- Red Bull and Ford have reportedly explored similar concepts without a breakthrough, and Red Bull is publicly maintaining a neutral stance.
- The 2026 framework removes the MGU-H, increases reliance on the MGU-K and energy recovery, and introduces active aero, raising the importance of energy management that Red Bull believes plays to Max Verstappen’s strengths.