Red Bull Powertrains boss Ben Hodgkinson has dismissed reports of the team exploiting a compression-ratio loophole in the 2026 F1 engine regulations, calling it “a lot of noise about nothing”. The controversy surrounds the interpretation of the rules, which state that the compression ratio must be 16:1, measured at ambient temperature. Rivals claim that Red Bull and Mercedes are achieving a higher compression ratio when the engine is running at higher temperatures, potentially giving them an advantage.
According to Hodgkinson, the compression ratio limit of 16:1 is “too low” and Red Bull has the technology to make it work with an 18:1 ratio. He emphasized that the team is confident their engine is within the regulations and that they’ve taken it “right to the very limit of what the regulations allow”.
The FIA has acknowledged the debate and stated that the procedures for checking the compression ratio are unchanged from the previous ruleset. The governing body will meet with manufacturers, including Red Bull, Mercedes, Ferrari, Honda, and Audi, to discuss the issue.
Rivals, including Ferrari, Audi, and Honda, have expressed concerns that Red Bull and Mercedes may have an unfair advantage if they’re allowed to exploit the loophole. The estimated advantage is around 10kW of extra power, equivalent to 0.3-0.4 seconds per lap.
The outcome of this controversy could shape the competitive landscape of the 2026 F1 season. Would you like to know more about the 2026 F1 engine regulations or the FIA’s next steps in addressing this issue?
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