Max Verstappen may see his hopes of seeing an imminent Formula 1 power unit rule change for 2027 dashed after Audi’s demands for “stability”.
The Dutchman is clearly not a fan of F1’s latest technical regulations.
The Milton-Keynes-based team have been adjudged to have the strongest power unit on the grid, as per the FIA, but Verstappen has consistently voiced his disdain about the 50-50 split between the ICE and the battery.
It would appear that many echo similar sentiments within the paddock with reports suggesting that the teams have agreed upon a 60-40 split going into 2027.
But Audi have emerged as one of the strongest opponents to this proposed rule change, demanding “stability” in the regulations instead.
“Our perspective really is to have stability there,” Audi CEO Gernot Dollner told media.
“That’s our clear view with entering new, this is one reason, and the other reason is that we have to be cost-efficient.
“That’s the most important aspect from our side, to have the cost cap in mind and to see.
“Our innovation path is maybe a little steeper because we started lower and so on that path we are happy with stability.”
Dollner is confident, however, that a “good solution” will be thrashed out amongst the decision-makers, with the German marque being a key member of the ongoing discussions.
“The process is running, and it’s in good hands,” he added.
“We are part of that process together with the other engine manufacturers, and so I think in ’27 there will be a good solution in place.”
Looking ahead to the remainder of the 2026 campaign, Audi will benefit from the ADUO scheme proposed by the FIA with its power unit deemed to be between 4% to 6% behind the benchmark set by Red Bull Powertrains.
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