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Topics: Red Bull Racing, Mercedes, Formula 1, FIA
Marcus Chan
Formula 1's governing body, the FIA, could reportedly make a major change to the regulations, in what will be a big blow to Mercedes.
Ahead of the 2026 season, the technical regulations underwent a major revamp.
Cars have become smaller, lighter and more agile, which promises to bring better on-track battles.
In addition, there is said to be a greater reliance on battery power, and the aerodynamics have also been redesigned.
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It has been widely reported that Mercedes could be the team to beat in 2026, with the Brackley-based team said to have found a 'loophole' in the regulations.
According to The Race, Mercedes have allegedly managed to 'exploit the fuel compression limit', which could give them a huge advantage of 0.4 seconds per lap.
Previously, the fuel compression ratio had been set at 18:1, and it has been reduced to 16:1 ahead of 2026.
It has been claimed that Mercedes may have found a way to effectively run the fuel compression at 18:1 on track, but still comply with the rules when the cars are stationary and checked by the sport's governing body, the FIA.
It has since been claimed that rival teams have asked for clarification from the governing body.
It was then reported by Motorsport IT that Mercedes already have ‘written correspondence’ from the FIA that ‘approves’ their solution.
However, there is now a major update on the situation and it could be bad news for Mercedes.
According to Corriere dello Sport, via Formula Passion, the FIA are set to change the way they measure the fuel compression ratio.
As per the first edition of the new regulations, tests are carried out cold.
However, it has been said that from the Australian Grand Prix, tests will be done hot via statically heating the V6 engine components.
In order for the change to be locked in, a vote will have to take place.
It has been claimed that Red Bull, who had kept a neutral position in the saga, have now 'turned their back' on Mercedes by siding with rivals seeking clarity regarding the apparent trick.
The report stated that if the change is implemented, Mercedes' trick could be subverted.
Earlier in the week, Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff launched an attack at their rivals when speaking about the regulations.
He said: "I just don’t understand that some teams concentrate more on others and keep arguing a case that is very clear and transparent.
"Communication with the FIA was very positive all along, not only on compression ratio but other things too. Specifically in that area, it’s very clear what the regulations say, what the standard procedures are.
"So just get your s*** together. Doing secret meetings and letters, and inventing ways of testing which don’t exist… I can just say at least from us, we’re trying to minimise distractions and that’s looking more at us, not everybody else."