Formula 1’s four engine manufacturers, Mercedes, Ferrari, Renault and Honda are to meet with the FIA this week to discuss relaxing the engine development rules to create a fairier playing field.
Three of the four manufacturers support in-season development – similar to what has happened this season via a loophole discovered by Ferrari, which has been closed off for 2016 and beyond – whilst Mercedes is skeptical about the proposal as it wishes to maintain its advantage.
There is a fear that with each passing season, performance disparity will be locked in as development tokens reduce, as do the areas in which development can take place.
Mercedes rivals are therefore keen to catch-up quickly and believe that can only be done through relaxing the development rules.
Representatives from all four engine manufacturers will be present at the meeting, as will team bosses and a representative from the FIA.
They will have a tough job on their hands convincing Mercedes – which could block any proposal – to agree to such a move, but it’s believed the German marque sympathises with both Renault and Honda and wouldn’t strictly be against allowing them to play catch up.
The outcome of the meeting could offer Red Bull a lifeline. It’s known the Milton Keynes team is in contact with current supplier Renault about continuing its supply deal – despite a rather messy divorce.
If Renault are allowed to catch-up outside the homologation rules, which stipulate that all development tokens must be spent by February 28th, then Red Bull may be in a position to close up to both Ferrari and Mercedes next season.
