Ferrari fears Mercedes and Red Bull could exploit 2026 F1 engine loophole
Ferrari have raised concerns that Mercedes and Red Bull are taking advantage of a loophole in the 2026 Formula 1 engine regulations. According to sources, the rival power unit manufacturers are reportedly able to exceed the maximum fuel compression ratio of 16:1 on track, generating extra horsepower. However, when the cars are switched off and inspected by the FIA, they remain within the official technical limits.
The Italian team argue that while the practice may be technically compliant, it violates the spirit of the regulations. Industry insiders suggest that the advantage could be worth approximately three-tenths of a second per lap, making it a significant performance boost.
On Thursday, all F1 teams convened to discuss the issue. Reports from The Race indicate that while there was agreement on methods to measure fuel compression ratios in real-time, no timeline was set for implementing such a system.
Ferrari may struggle to rally enough votes to block the fuel compression method
Introducing on-track monitoring would require a formal change to the technical regulations, which must be approved by the F1 Commission. The challenge for Ferrari is that more than half the grid rely on either Mercedes or Red Bull power units. Teams including McLaren, Williams, and Alpine have agreements with Mercedes, while Racing Bulls naturally align with Red Bull.
Ferrari have formed an alliance with Honda and Audi to push back, but they remain in the minority. As things stand, the Mercedes and Red Bull teams have little incentive to support a rule change that could eliminate their advantage. Several rival teams were reportedly considering a clampdown after the summer break, but achieving consensus seems increasingly difficult. The same uncertainty applies for 2027.
Australian GP protests could force FIA action on fuel compression
Although Mercedes have received written approval from the FIA, pressure on the governing body is mounting. Audi sources have reportedly warned that they will never accept a hands-off approach if the FIA waits until the end of the season to act.
There is already speculation that protests could be filed at the start of the season, with Adrian Newey reportedly frustrated by the situation. Aston Martin may emerge as one of the teams to lodge an official complaint. Meanwhile, Mattia Binotto has expressed doubts about the practicality of any protest, noting that rival teams may not fully understand what they would be protesting.
Ultimately, if the controversy begins to harm the reputation of the championship or if multiple teams publicly question the legitimacy of results, the FIA could be forced to reconsider its current laissez-faire stance.
Jan 24, 2026Luca Marini
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