Upcoming Vote on Engine Compression Ratio Changes
Formula 1’s five engine manufacturers are preparing to vote on a proposed change regarding the measurement of engine compression ratios, which could be implemented during the summer break.
Current Regulations and Concerns
The 2026 power unit regulations set the engine compression ratio at 16:1, a reduction from 18:1 in the previous year. This ratio is traditionally measured at ambient temperatures when the engine is off, which does not account for material expansion caused by heat during operation.
Manufacturers’ Opposition
A group of competitors, reportedly led by Audi, fears that Mercedes could engineer a way to achieve a higher effective compression ratio while still passing the static tests, potentially providing a significant performance advantage.
Proposed Compromise
To address these concerns, competitors have urged the FIA to modify the assessment method for compression ratios before the season begins. A potential solution involves adding mandatory testing at elevated temperatures, specifically at 130 degrees Celsius, starting from August 1, 2026.
Voting Process
The proposal will be voted on by the Power Unit Advisory Committee, which met earlier this year to discuss potential adjustments. Instead of another in-person meeting, manufacturers have been given a 10-day window to cast their votes online.
Clarity on the Issue
All five power unit manufacturers, along with the FIA and the commercial rights holder FOM, will participate in the vote. A supermajority of four manufacturers plus both governing bodies is required to pass the change. The FIA has emphasized the importance of swiftly clarifying this issue to avoid disrupting the upcoming season.
Reactions from Teams
Team principals have expressed mixed feelings about the significance of the situation. James Vowles from Williams stated that the perceived problem might be exaggerated, while Red Bull’s Laurent Mekies emphasized the need for clarity regarding competitive regulations, regardless of the outcome.
