Ferrari is reportedly developing a potential solution to help the FIA more effectively test Mercedes’ 2026 Formula 1 engine, amid growing internal frustration over how the governing body has managed the ongoing compression rate saga. Sources indicate that the Scuderia question the FIA’s competence in resolving the matter, believing that a clearer testing procedure is necessary to ensure fairness across all engine manufacturers.
Tensions have escalated between F1 engine suppliers ahead of the 2026 season, with several teams suspecting that Mercedes may have identified a loophole in the new technical regulations. The 2026 F1 rules brought significant changes to the internal combustion engine (ICE) guidelines, including an increase in electrical power usage from a 20/80 split to nearly 50/50, altering the balance between thermal and hybrid power.
Ferrari, Honda, Audi, and now Red Bull have all expressed concern to the FIA that Mercedes’ power unit can temporarily increase its compression ratio from the regulated 16:1 up to 18:1 during on-track operation. Mercedes maintains that their engine remains within the rules, as it passes all FIA-mandated tests conducted under standard ambient conditions.
Rival teams are pressing the FIA to issue a definitive ruling on the legality of the Mercedes engine before the season opener in Australia. Some teams have suggested modifying the wording of the technical regulations and performing tests at operational engine temperatures, but the FIA is said to have already cleared Mercedes’ 2026 power unit under the current interpretation.
Ferrari devises new approach to test hot engines
In response, Ferrari has reportedly instructed its Maranello-based engine division to explore a new testing tool that could allow the FIA to measure the V6 engines while they are still hot. The proposed device would attach directly to the cylinder head with the car stationary, potentially providing a more accurate read of the engine’s operating compression ratio. However, technical challenges remain, including the time needed to remove sidepods, the engine cover, and spark plugs, which could allow teams to cool the engine sufficiently using dry ice during the procedure.
Mercedes’ 2026 engine is expected to be discussed at next Wednesday’s F1 Commission meeting in Bahrain, where representatives from all 11 teams, the FIA, and Formula 1’s commercial rights holder FOM will be present. Despite Ferrari’s concerns, insiders suggest that the Scuderia privately view the FIA’s handling of the Mercedes engine saga as “incompetent,” with the governing body attempting to appease all parties in a manner that may not satisfy anyone fully.
Fred Vasseur rules out formal protest
Although Ferrari, Audi, and Honda were the first to notify the FIA about Mercedes’ potential engine trick, Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur has confirmed that the team will not lodge an official protest against Mercedes’ 2026 power unit. Instead, the Maranello team will adhere to whatever decision the FIA announces following the Commission meeting.
Fred Vasseur emphasized that Ferrari’s priority is clarity in the regulations rather than confrontation. The French manager stated that the team’s goal is to ensure that all competitors operate with the same understanding of the rules, acknowledging that past misunderstandings or errors are inevitable. According to Fred Vasseur, the key outcome is to have a definitive and transparent ruling that all teams can accept, which he expects to be delivered next Wednesday.
Implications for the 2026 F1 season
The Mercedes engine saga has the potential to shape the early 2026 season, particularly if the FIA’s ruling impacts engine performance and parity among the manufacturers. Ferrari’s proactive approach to designing a new measurement solution underscores the importance of technical fairness and consistency across the grid. With the first race in Australia approaching, ensuring that all teams compete under clear and enforceable engine regulations could prove decisive for championship battles involving Ferrari, Mercedes, Red Bull, and other key contenders.
For Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, clarity on the FIA’s stance will also influence race strategy, as the power unit’s performance characteristics directly affect fuel usage, energy deployment, and car balance. Ferrari’s internal push to develop an alternative testing method highlights the high stakes and intense scrutiny surrounding the Mercedes engine, as the Scuderia seek to protect their competitive position while adhering to the sport’s complex technical regulations.
Feb 15, 2026Sofia Bianchi
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