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FIA explain ‘cost cap discount’ to avoid F1 teams being ‘condemned to eternal misery’
FIA single-seater director Nikolas Tombazis has elaborated on the reasoning behind providing “catch-up opportunities” to power unit manufacturers this season to prevent sudden exits from the sport. The new PU regulations, featuring a 50-50 split between combustion and electric, have led to significant changes in the manufacturer landscape, with GM backing Cadillac, Ford partnering with Red Bull, and Honda returning after a five-year hiatus. The FIA introduced the ADUO programme to help level the playing field, allowing for adjustments based on manufacturers’ performances throughout the 24-grand prix season. Tombazis is confident that this approach will prevent manufacturers from leaving the sport prematurely. The ADUO program offers benefits like increased dyno hours, homologation opportunities, and adjustment to the cost cap to ensure fair competition and prevent financial strain on struggling teams. The aim is to maintain a competitive field and prevent scenarios where manufacturers feel compelled to exit the sport due to uncompetitive performances.
