F1 Engine Row Resolved: FIA Closes Loophole Ahead of 2026 Season
Formula 1’s governing body, the FIA, has reached a compromise with engine manufacturers to resolve a dispute over engine compression ratios, just days before the start of the 2026 season in Australia. The issue centered around concerns that Mercedes had found a way to exploit a loophole in the new power unit regulations.
The Compression Ratio Controversy Explained
Under the 2026 regulations, the compression ratio for V6 engines was reduced from 18:1 to 16:1, partly to encourage new manufacturers like Audi and Red Bull Powertrains to join the sport. However, rivals suspected Mercedes was able to increase the compression ratio – and therefore power output – when the engine was running hot, despite meeting the 16:1 limit when cold. The initial regulations only measured the compression ratio in cold conditions.
The FIA’s solution, unanimously approved by engine manufacturers, introduces a new test. From June 1, 2026, the compression ratio will be measured both when the engine is cold and at 130 degrees Centigrade. In 2027, the measurement will be taken exclusively when the engine is hot.
Impact on Mercedes and the F1 Grid
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff initially expressed concerns that changes to the regulations could be “quite damaging for the performance.” However, he later softened his stance, suggesting the team could adapt. The new regulations aim to level the playing field and prevent any single manufacturer from gaining an unfair advantage.
The change comes after extensive feedback from drivers and teams following pre-season testing in Barcelona and Bahrain. The FIA emphasized that the goal is to ensure fair competition and attract new entrants to the sport.
Beyond Compression Ratios: Other Regulatory Updates
The FIA also announced changes to the qualifying format for the 2026 season. Q3 will now last 13 minutes, up from 12, with a slight reduction in the interval between Q2 and Q3 to maintain a one-hour qualifying session overall. The elimination criteria in Q1 and Q2 will also change, removing the bottom six cars instead of five, reflecting the increased number of teams on the grid with Cadillac’s arrival.
the mandatory two-pit-stop rule for the Monaco Grand Prix has been removed, aligning the race regulations with those of other grand prix events.
Will the Rule Change Affect the Pecking Order?
Although the full impact remains to be seen, the FIA believes the changes will prevent any significant performance discrepancies related to compression ratios. Red Bull engine chief Ben Hodgkinson previously downplayed the issue, while Aston Martin team principal Adrian Newey suggested that all manufacturers except one were aligned on the need for a change. The FIA stated that the concerns were not about any team acting illegally, but rather about clarifying the intent of the regulations.
Bernie Collins on new engine test
“It’s not the first time we have had this sort of thing in F1. The suggestion is Mercedes have a different compression ratio in the engine, which compresses the gas more at a higher temperature, which gives them more power out of the engine. We had this last year with front and rear wings where midway through the season we brought in an extra test to try and slow the leaders, at that stage McLaren, but they passed all the tests and nothing changes in the pecking order.”
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season
The 2026 season marks a significant shift for Formula 1, with new engine regulations, new teams, and a renewed focus on sustainability. The FIA’s swift action to address the compression ratio dispute demonstrates its commitment to fair competition and a level playing field as the sport enters this new era.
FAQ
Q: What is engine compression ratio?
A: It’s the ratio of the volume of the cylinder when the piston is at its lowest point to the volume when it’s at its highest point. A higher ratio generally means more power.
Q: When will the new compression ratio test be implemented?
A: The test will be implemented from June 1, 2026.
Q: What other changes are being made for the 2026 season?
A: Changes include an extended Q3 session, adjusted qualifying elimination criteria, and the removal of mandatory pit stops at the Monaco Grand Prix.
