Do we have our first 2026 technical controversy already?

The 2026 F1 power units are totally new, as they will not have an MGU-H while they deliver power from the Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) and the electric component on a 50-50 percent basis.

The ICE, still a turbocharged V6, will have a mandated compression ratio, which is 16.0:1 compared to 18.0:1 in the outgoing engines.

But it appears that Red Bull Racing's power unit department, as well as Mercedes' have found a way to increase that ratio through the use of special components that expand when the engine is hot, keeping in mind that the FIA measure the compression ratios at ambient temperatures.

Audi, Honda, and Ferrari, according to several media reports, have submitted questions to the FIA regarding the practices of Mercedes and Red Bull in that regard.

The governing body commented: "The topic has been and continues to be discussed in the technical forums with the PUMs (power unit manufacturers), as the new limit naturally raises questions about interpretation and compliance.

"The FIA continuously reviews such matters to ensure fairness and clarity and, if necessary, may consider changes to the regulations or measurement procedures in the future," it added.

But it seems there will be nothing for the FIA to do, as they stated clearly that compression ratio measurements remain at ambient temperature.

The FIA continued: “The regulations clearly define the maximum compression ratio as well as the method for measuring it, based on static conditions at ambient temperature. This procedure has remained unchanged despite the reduction in the permitted ratio for the 2026 season.

"It is true that thermal expansion can influence dimensions, but the current rules do not provide for measurements to be carried out at elevated temperatures," the FIA concluded.