P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes aced the 2014 F1 power unit changes, but according to the FIA, that is unlikely to happen again – and there is a plan in place if it does.
FIA single-seater director Nikolas Tombazis has addressed the goal of preventing F1 engine manufacturers from facing permanent humiliation due to the new 2026 power unit regulations. He believes no single OEM will replicate the dominance Mercedes had during the 2014 engine rule change due to the simplified regulations this time. Unlike 2014, when Mercedes held a strong advantage, the new regulations aim to level the playing field by simplifying technology and reducing certain components such as the MGU-H. Tombazis emphasized the possibility of new manufacturers entering the fray and the risk of initial failures due to budget constraints and limited testing time in the development process. Ultimately, the focus is on ensuring competitive balance and avoiding a repeat of one manufacturer’s prolonged dominance in the future of Formula 1.
