P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Formula 1’s manufacturers are to meet with the FIA on the eve of the first pre-season test to discuss the ongoing controversy over engine compression rules
Formula 1’s manufacturers are scheduled to meet with the FIA on the eve of the first pre-season test to address the ongoing controversy surrounding engine compression rules. A dispute arose among car manufacturers towards the end of last year over the interpretation of the compression ratio limit in the 2026 rules, with Mercedes and Red Bull taking advantage of a potential loophole to enhance engine performance. Some manufacturers believed the 16:1 compression ratio limit was absolute, but not all shared this interpretation, suspecting that Mercedes and Red Bull have found ways to exceed this limit when the engines are hot. These potential gains could offer up to 10kW of additional power, equivalent to 13 horsepower, potentially resulting in a 0.3-0.4 second per lap time improvement on power-sensitive tracks. The FIA has called a meeting on January 22 with all manufacturers to discuss the situation, just days before the first test begins, aiming to ensure all competitors understand and apply the regulations consistently. Despite the unlikely chance of an immediate change in the FIA’s stance, rivals of Mercedes are advocating for clarity and alignment on the interpretation moving forward to maintain a fair competition environment.
