P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Red Bull’s power unit on ‘very limit’ of rules amid F1 engine trick ‘noise’
Red Bull is confident that their 2026 F1 power unit is operating within the regulations and is not breaking any rules amidst recent speculation of engine tricks. The team has been in the spotlight due to suspicions of exploiting thermal expansion to achieve a higher compression ratio than allowed, which could provide a significant performance advantage if successful. Some rival teams like Audi, Ferrari, and Honda have raised concerns with the FIA regarding this issue. Red Bull’s Powertrains director, Ben Hodgkinson, stated that they have pushed the design of their engine to the limit of the compression ratio rules but believe it is legal. He expressed confidence in their approach and dismissed the noise around the alleged controversy as much ado about nothing, emphasizing that they are focused on their own race. Hodgkinson also argued that the current compression ratio limit of 16:1 is too low from a technical standpoint and believes it should be higher for better performance. Red Bull’s RB22 will have its first track appearance during a private shakedown in Barcelona with drivers Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar.
