For the 2026 F1 season, the FIA has reduced the compression ratio of the internal combustion engine from 18.0 to 16.0 to limit performance and improve efficiency in this year's Formula 1 cars.
However, multiple outlets have reported that Mercedes, for example, has figured out a way to exceed the 16:1 compression ratio when the engine is running at full operating temperature, helping reach values close to 18:1, without breaking the rules. If accurate, that's going to give the team a huge advantage over its rivals.
The FIA has shared an update today, explaining that "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," they continue, "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."
This potential advantage could be worth as much as four-tenths of a second per lap, a significant gain in F1, given that margins are typically measured in hundredths of a second. An outcome from this vote is expected in the next 10 days, and when it likely goes against Mercedes, we can expect a rule change...over halfway through the season.
That may give Mercedes a potentially major advantage for most of the year, and nothing changing until the summer break is still going to be controversial. This comes after a dispute that has dominated the pre-season, with rival manufacturers questioning the legality of the Mercedes power unit, used by four teams (the others being McLaren, Williams, and Alpine).
We also have an update on how the recent tests in Barcelona and Bahrain have impacted the FIA's plans for the massive regulation changes coming to Formula 1 this year.
Constructive discussion took place among all the teams following initial feedback from drivers arising from a survey instigated by the FIA. Topics covered include overall car characteristics, energy and power unit, aerodynamics, overtaking and racing, tyres and mechanical grip. Positive feedback from drivers was received on the reduced weight and smaller dimensions of the 2026 cars. Drivers generally agreed that the new car exhibited improved ride quality and stronger initial acceleration.
It was agreed that no immediate major regulatory changes were required given that initial evidence and feedback remains immature and that premature change carried the risk of increased instability ahead of the first race. Further reviews will be carried out once more data becomes available. There were constructive talks and proposals centred on the race start procedure during the commission meeting. As a result, further evaluation of updates to race systems and on-car management will be undertaken during the current Bahrain test.
It sounds like the recent tests are proving as big a learning curve for the FIA as they have been for the drivers on track. These tweaks will likely be welcomed when the season begins next month, but this next point might not be.
"There were discussions around the possibility of increasing the Sprint events up to 12 based on the demand for Sprints from fans and promoters," the FIA has confirmed, revealing plans to potentially double the number of shortened Saturday races for the 2027 season and beyond.
Those allow extra point scoring opportunities and are generally far more exciting than Practise sessions, but many drivers have not been shy about sharing their dislike of the additional race on these weekends.