Mercedes will be allowed to use their 2026 engines until at least the summer break, the FIA has confirmed, despite rivals claiming they should not be permitted to make use of a loophole in the new Formula 1 regulations. Mercedes are said to have found a way to imcrease the compression ratio of their power units beyond the 16:1 limit when heated up, with the current rules stating it will only be measured at an ambient temperature.
Mercedes always argued that the approach was legal but all other manufacturers said they would vote for the rules to be changed. The FIA has now confirmed that a vote will be taken on whether a rule change should come into force in the summer, allowing Mercedes to use their current engines for the first half of the season.
A statement from the governing body read: “A proposal has been submitted whereby, from August 1, 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, 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.”
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