Even earlier than the primary collective on-track Formulation 1 motion of 2026, there was speak in regards to the new engine rules in Formulation 1. Extra particularly, the main focus is on the compression ratio of the interior combustion engine (ICE) – the ratio between the cylinder’s most and minimal quantity.
Below the earlier rules, this ratio was 18:1, however for 2026 it has been lowered to 16:1 – partly to make the engine rules extra accessible for newcomers.
The controversy arose after it emerged that Mercedes, and to a lesser extent Pink Bull Powertrains, would adjust to static assessments, however in apply – at increased temperatures whereas operating – may obtain a better ratio.
Article C5.4.3 stipulates that the FIA verify is carried out solely beneath static situations and at ambient temperature: “No cylinder of the engine could have a geometrical compression ratio increased than 16.0. The process to measure this worth will likely be detailed by every PU producer in response to the steering doc FIA-F1-DOC-C042 and executed at ambient temperature. This process should be authorised by the FIA technical division and included within the PU producer homologation file.”
Those that adjust to this and obtain a better ratio whereas operating can subsequently argue that they’re merely working throughout the rules. Different engine producers – Audi, Ferrari and Honda – nevertheless level to a special part of the 2026 rules, particularly Article C1.5: “Formulation 1 vehicles should adjust to these rules of their entirety always throughout a contest.”
For the reason that 16:1 compression ratio is explicitly said within the guidelines, these producers argue that each one engines should additionally adjust to it whereas operating.
Within the quick time period, the FIA seems set to stay with the present checks and subsequently the present wording of the rules, though the governing physique has left the door open for adjustments afterward – if required.
2026 FIA F1 automotive render
Picture by: FIA
The subject will likely be mentioned once more on 22 January, when a gathering with technical specialists is scheduled forward of the primary day of pre-season testing at Barcelona.
“As is customary with the introduction of latest rules, discussions on the 2026 iteration masking energy unit and chassis are ongoing,” an FIA spokesperson stated.
“The assembly deliberate for 22 January is between technical specialists. As at all times, the FIA assesses the scenario as a way to make sure that the rules are understood and utilized in the identical method between all of the individuals.”
The FIA has clarified to Motorsport that this assembly had been deliberate for longer and isn’t solely in regards to the engine loophole controversy. The assembly has a broader scope, additionally masking the brand new chassis rules, though it’s logical that almost all consideration will likely be on the compression ratio.
As is commonly the case, those that have discovered a possible loophole naturally deem it to be throughout the authorized boundaries, whereas others foyer for extra readability, a minimum of long run. As a result of the FIA just isn’t intervening at current, little change is anticipated to happen earlier than the beginning of the season. Any tweaks usually tend to be aimed toward 2027 or, within the earliest state of affairs, across the summer time break.
Nevertheless, the Extra Growth and Improve Alternatives (ADUO) mechanism already offers a security web within the rules for producers which are behind by way of the combustion engine. Energy is measured each six races (1-6, 7-12, 13-18), with producers which are between 2% and 4% down on the most effective ICE receiving one further improve. Producers which are greater than 4% behind are allowed two further upgrades.
Adjusting the compression ratio, nevertheless, is less complicated stated than accomplished – even with permitted upgrades it stays a posh job. It is precisely why Audi, Ferrari and Honda hold pushing to tweak the measurement procedures, or a minimum of to get extra readability on the utmost compression ratio going ahead.
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