Formula 1‘s engine manufacturers have been given the chance to vote on a key and controversial element of the new regulations.
The winter’s biggest talking point has been the way the new rulebook is written regarding the measuring of the new power units’ temperatures.
With the regulations stating that the compression ratio of the PUs must stand at 16:1 in ambient temperatures, it became apparent that this was the only temperature in which they are measured.
This was interpreted as a hole in the regulations, which were exploited by Mercedes and Red Bull’s powertrains divisions.
Ever since, the issue has been one of extreme contention, with the other three manufacturers demanding clarity and, in their eyes, an increased fairness, as the change in ratio could potentially put said PUs at a performance advantage.
Mercedes now stands totally alone on the issue, as Red Bull decided to stand with Audi, Ferrari and Honda, and meetings have continuously taken place between them and the FIA.
A further meeting has now resulted in a crucial conclusion, in which democracy will be utilised to determine the outcome.
FIA launches ‘e-vote’ on controversial F1 PU issue
The decision reached by the sport’s governing body is that a vote will take place to determine whether a revision of the compression ratio measurements will take effect at the start of August, effectively in time for the resumption of the season from its summer break.
An FIA statement read: “Following validation of this approach [measuring compression ratios in both ambient and operative temperatures], a proposal has been submitted whereby, from 1 August 2026, compliance with the compression ratio limit must be demonstrated not only at ambient conditions, but also at a representative operating temperature of 130°C.
“The vote has been submitted to the Power Unit Manufacturers, and its outcome is expected within the next 10 days and will be communicated in due course.
“As with all Formula 1 regulatory changes, any amendment remains subject to final approval by the FIA World Motor Sport Council.”
If the power advantages are proved, and likely outcome of the vote in favour of the four discontented manufacturers, then what is just under the whole second half of the season could see a change in landscape in terms of the Mercedes PUs coming under scrutiny, potentially giving rivals a significant chance to use the remaining 11 rounds, commencing with the Dutch Grand Prix on August 23, to catch up.
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