If that goes through, it could be like two seasons in one. Will be interesting to see which teams are most effected
Over recent weeks and months, the FIA and the Power Unit Manufacturers have collaboratively developed a methodology to quantify how the compression ratio changes from ambient to operating conditions. Following validation of this approach, 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.
Do we know the majority requirments for the vote?
I don’t think it matters. The vote is submitted only to the Power Unit Manufacturers so it’s almost guaranteed to pass. Even if Red Bull has copied Mercs compression trick Audi and Ferrari are clearly against it and Honda is so far behind they have to that whatever advantage they can take. It’s going to be 3 vs 2 in favor of regulatory change.
How is this a regulatory change? The rule is the same - it’s just tested in one more condition. Like when doing additional testing on flexiwings.
There is talk that Mercedes engine can expand with heat to increase the ratio but still be valid at ambient temps. https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/articles/cm21x3yl2yzo
I know, but the regulation isn’t that the compression ratio shall be 16:1 only at ambient tests. It’s 16:1 - and then it’s tested for compliancy at ambient temps. Just introducing another test shouldn’t be a regulatory change.
I believe that the way it is tested is written into the regulation. So, there is a sentence in there reading “tested at xy” and they need to chance that in order to add another test.
Agreed, that’s the way the rule was written. A few YouTube people commented months ago about the possibility to use that loophole.
The 2026 regulations have loads of such loopholes. E.g. that cars are hard to follow are partly due to yet another loophole.
