P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The FIA has conceded that a “weakness” in the Formula 1 regulations leaves the door open for teams to make a key change without cost cap consequences
The FIA has acknowledged a weakness in Formula 1 regulations that allows teams to make power unit changes without facing cost cap consequences.
The controversy arose after the Brazilian Grand Prix when McLaren questioned whether Red Bull could swap engines without financial penalties.
The ambiguity stems from a lack of strict guidelines in the regulations regarding engine changes within cost cap limits.
While McLaren believes performance-related engine changes should be costed under the cap, Red Bull contends otherwise.
The FIA’s stance is to trust teams’ claims of reliability reasons for changes, rather than delve into detailed investigations for each case.
This loophole in the rules will be closed off by new regulations in 2026, ensuring fair play under the cost cap for engine manufacturers.
