It previously emerged that Ferrari, Honda and Audi are unhappy with a method Mercedes has introduced to increase the compression ratio. Red Bull Powertrains is also reported to have already begun implementing the same solution.

According to sources, the potential gain could be as much as 0.4 seconds per lap. This would place teams not running a Mercedes or Red Bull power unit at a clear disadvantage heading into the 2026 regulations.

The FIA has approved the Mercedes innovation, confirming that it complies fully with the technical guidelines as worded in the regulations. As such, it is considered a legitimate exploitation of a regulatory loophole, first identified by the German manufacturer and later adopted by Red Bull following the arrival of a former Mercedes employee.

In an earlier statement, the FIA said it may consider adjustments to the regulations or measuring methods in the future. Such changes would be more likely to come into effect for the 2027 season. For 2026, however, the compression solution used by Mercedes and Red Bull remains legal and available for use.

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