FIA buckles, puts proposal to change Mercedes F1 engine compression procedure to vote

The FIA announced in a statement today that the Formula 1 Power Unit Advisory Committee has voted on a proposal to change the procedure in which F1 engine compression is measured.

That comes after Mercedes' power unit has come under scrutiny as the eight-time F1 Champions have managed to find a way to exceed the mandated 16:1 engine compression ratio in operating conditions while passing FIA checks that are done at ambient temperature.

The sport's governing body said it had launched an e-vote regarding the proposal that has been under development in the recent weeks and months.

The FIA issued a statement saying: "Over recent weeks and months, the FIA and the Power Unit Manufacturers have collaboratively developed a methodology to quantify how the compression ratio changes from ambient to operating conditions.

"Following validation of this approach, a proposal has been submitted whereby, from 1 August 2026, compliance with the compression ratio limit must be demonstrated not only at ambient conditions but also at a representative operating temperature of 130°C.

"The vote has been submitted to the Power Unit Manufacturers," the statement revealed, "and its outcome is expected within the next 10 days and will be communicated in due course.

"As with all Formula 1 regulatory changes, any amendment remains subject to final approval by the FIA World Motor Sport Council," the FIA concluded.

With Red Bull now reportedly supporting the change, Mercedes will probably lose the vote and will have to modify their engines.

However, Mercedes will not need to worry about doing that before the season-opening race in Melbourne on March 6-8.