The FIA has issued an updated set of 2016 Sporting Regulations which stipulates that manufacturer teams cannot offer year-old engines to their customer teams.
The ruling, which could yet change before the 2016 season kicks off, is a major blow to Toro Rosso which is close to securing a deal which would see it using 2015-spec Ferrari engines next year.
The ruling could however play into Red Bull’s hands as it seeks a supply of 2016 Ferrari engines. The Italian team has so far only offered Red Bull the same terms as it has Toro Rosso – a deal Red Bull rejected – but under the revised rules, Ferrari would have no option but to supply same-spec engines.
“Only power units which are identical to the power unit that has been homologated by the FIA in accordance with Appendix 4 of these regulations may be used at an Event during the 2016- 2020 Championship seasons,” reads Article 23.5 of F1’s 2016 Sporting Regulations.
However the rules could change before the new year, but only if unanimous agreement is sought amongst all competing teams.
“These Sporting Regulations were published on 30 September 2015 and may only be changed after this date with the unanimous agreement of all competitors entered in the 2016 Championship, save for changes made by the FIA for safety reasons which may come into effect without notice or delay.”
F1’s engine manufacturers are due to meet this week to discuss freeing up development rules and will likely discuss supplying year-old engines as well.
