The FIA has called a meeting for Thursday that will be attended by engine manufacturers and senior power unit specialists, with discussions expected to focus on concerns that a loophole in the regulations could be exploited.
The issue centres on the technical framework governing the next-generation engines, which are due to be introduced in 2026.
According to paddock speculation, Mercedes and Red Bull may have uncovered a method of operating their power units at a higher compression ratio than the regulations are designed to permit.
The 2026 rules specify a maximum compression ratio of 16:1, but rivals believe the wording leaves room for an alternative interpretation. This alleged workaround has been labelled a “power unit trick” and is feared to offer a substantial performance advantage.
Ferrari, Audi and Honda are reportedly dissatisfied with the current situation and have pushed for urgent clarification from the FIA.
All three manufacturers are keen to avoid a scenario in which differing interpretations of the rules undermine the competitive balance at the start of the new engine era.
Audi F1 chief Mattia Binotto has cautioned that Mercedes, in particular, could establish a “significant gap” over its competitors if the matter is not resolved decisively.
Audi technical director James Key has echoed those concerns, urging the FIA to take the “right decisions” to ensure the regulations are applied fairly and as intended.
“We have to, as we do, trust the FIA with making the right decisions here,” Key said at Audi’s 2026 launch event in Berlin on Tuesday night.
“It’s new regs. You’ve got to have a level playing field. If someone came up with a clever diffuser and you said it’s not the right thing to do, no one else can have it, but you can have it for the rest of the year.
“It doesn’t make sense. We’d never accept that.”
