The FIA’s plan to introduce a cheap, independent engine for the 2017 season took a hit on Tuesday when it was rejected by the Formula One Commission.
The governing body has proposed that F1 adopt an alternative engine, based on a 2.5-litre, twin-turbo V6, producing roughly 900hp, which will be run alongside the current hybrid-V6 power units but at a grealty reduced cost.
It’s aimed at giving those struggling financially an escape from the current power units, which cost around £18 million ($26m) annually. Whilst also providing Red Bull with an answer to its struggle to source a competitive engine.
However the idea has hit strong opposition from both Ferrari and Mercedes in particular, with Mercedes’ motorsport boss Toto Wolff comparing it to “blackmail”, as he believes the FIA are using it as a bargaining chip to enforce a budget cap on customer engine supply deals.
“We can definitely talk [about the situation], but we will not be blackmailed,” he told Bild.
Passed by Strategy Group
During a vote on Tuesday in Paris, the alternative engine proposal was passed during an initial vote of the F1 Strategy Group, as it only requires a majority, rather than unanimous support.
The FIA and FOM hold six votes apiece, whilst the six nominated teams (Mercedes, Ferrari, McLaren, Williams, Red Bull and Force India) hold one each, therefore no matter how the teams vote, the FIA and FOM’s 12 votes make a majority.
However come the second vote – this time at the F1 Commission – it’s believed the proposal was rejected.
Any rule change requires a majority of 18 out of a possible 24 votes. But unlike the Strategy Group, voting members include representatives from sponsors, circuit organisers and Pirelli, alongside the teams, the FIA and FOM.
It’s not the end just yet
But the idea might not be dead in the water just yet. To reach the final vote, that of the World Motor Sport Council, passing the F1 Commission is usually a must. However the FIA could push the matter through on force majeure grounds, if it believes the future of the sport is at risk.
It’s believed more information as to what the FIA might do will be revealed later this week.
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