The FIA has confirmed changes to the Formula 1 engine compression ratio regulations, with Mercedes powered cars set to suffer a significant impact.
The controversy surrounding engine compression ratios has come to a conclusion after months of political wrangling and lobbying by rival teams, the topic a major talking point during Bahrain testing.
Outlining the change in the technical regulations, the FIA has changed the criteria for measuring the temperature of the power unit must now be measured at 130 degrees celsius as well as the original specification of ambient-temperature testing.
The ruling marks a significant change from the original intention of implementing changes recommended by the F1 Commission for August, the changes now set for June.
Following the changes, Article C5.4.3 of the technical regulations now reads:
“No cylinder, as referred to by C5.1.3, of the engine may have a geometric compression ratio higher than 16.0, measured in the following conditions:
“Until 31 May 2026: when the Engine is at ambient temperature
“From 1 June 2026 to 31 December 2026: when the Engine is at ambient temperature as well as when the Engine is at 130degC. Any component, assembly, mechanism, or integrated arrangement of components that is designed or functions to in ratio in operating conditions beyond 16.0 is prohibited.
Mercedes now faces a race against time to modify its power unit for both its factory team and customers McLaren, Alpine and Williams ahead of the June deadline.
READ MORE: Mercedes F1 customers poised for engine upgrade for Melbourne
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