P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes handed F1 2026 blow as FIA power unit talks take fresh twist
Just before the start of the Melbourne race, a new development has come to light in the Mercedes F1 compression ratio controversy for their 2026 power unit.
Mercedes found a regulatory loophole allowing them to run at 16:1 during static tests, but it goes up to 18:1 during actual running, creating a possible 0.3 second advantage for the team.
The FIA proposed measuring ratios at different temperatures, but a supermajority vote from power unit manufacturers is required for this change to be implemented.
There’s a possibility that the deadline for this rule amendment could be moved to June 1 before the Austrian Grand Prix instead of August 1, with measurements shifting to hot conditions from 2027.
The controversy surrounding compression ratios in F1 engines continues to be a focus of discussion in the motorsport world.
