The FIA ​​issues a shocking ruling in the Mercedes-Red Bull saga “loophole” for the new V6 power unit: reports

Mercedes and Red Bull have been involved in the controversy surrounding the power unit for the 2026 season, with the FIA ​​having to intervene in the same matter. The two teams found a vulnerability in the power unit regulations, which was reported more than a week ago. Latest reports suggest that the FIA ​​has made a ruling on the loophole and will allow both teams to continue using the controversial V6 power unit.

The FIA ​​has introduced major regulatory changes for the 2026 Formula 1 season with new power units, chassis and aerodynamics. Compared with the previous engine, the MGU-H has been removed, and the power of the hybrid engine has been increased. But the loophole that Mercedes and Red Bull exploited was the compression ratio.

According to the regulations, the compression ratio has been reduced to 16:1 for 2026, and the compression test will be carried out at ambient temperature. Reports suggested that Mercedes and Red Bull used materials that expand as the engine temperature rises, increasing the compression ratio to 18:1, while continuing to pass compression tests.

Rivals, including Honda, Audi and Ferrari, have reportedly asked the FIA ​​to intervene as they want clarification on the same. According to Motorsport.it, the FIA ​​has ruled on the Mercedes and Red Bull loophole, allowing both teams to continue using the V6 power unit.

“Mercedes and Red Bull can operate on their own terms. The FIA ​​has recognized that the combustion chambers of their engines are legal if a compression ratio of 16:1 is measured during tests carried out at room temperature. It does not matter if the resulting value is higher when heated.”

With just over a month to go until the first test of the season, Mercedes and Red Bull would have to start from scratch if the FIA ​​ruled against them. The Brackley-based company has reportedly kept the FIA ​​updated regarding the development of the engine.

How can competitors respond to the FIA’s green light for Mercedes and Red Bull’s power unit?

Mercedes were reportedly the first team to find a pressure ratio loophole, followed by Red Bull. The Milton Keynes-based company reportedly learned of a compression ratio vulnerability after a group of Mercedes employees joined the team. It is believed that Mercedes has solved the power unit issue while Red Bull is still a few steps behind.

With a month to go until the first winter test, and more than two months before the first race, rivals including Honda, Audi and Ferrari still have the opportunity to exploit the loophole. While the reports only came out a week ago, rivals have had an idea of ​​Mercedes’ compression ratio vulnerability for months.

Competing teams can also lodge a formal complaint with the stewards in the first race of the season. If there is a 2% gap between the power units, the FIA ​​will allow additional development and upgrade opportunities (ADUO) after the first six races of the season.