F1, Sportrik Media - The FIA has firmly rejected suggestions that allegations of “cheating” were ever raised during discussions surrounding the controversial compression ratio development by Mercedes HPP. The governing body clarified its position amid ongoing debate over potential amendments to the 2026 Formula 1 power unit regulations.
An e-vote of the Power Unit Advisory Committee (PUAC) is expected imminently to revise the technical rules so that engine compression ratios are measured not only at ambient temperature but also at a representative 130 degrees Celsius. If approved, the amendment would come into effect in August 2026.
The controversy emerged after Mercedes HPP developed a system enabling a compression ratio of 18:1, compared to the 16:1 target originally intended under the regulations. The loophole arose because the written rules specified measurement at ambient temperature only, without explicitly covering hot operating conditions.
Manufacturers including Ferrari, Audi, Honda, and Red Bull Powertrains are pushing for the regulatory clarification. A supermajority within the PUAC is required for the change, alongside approval from both the FIA and Formula One Management (FOM).
As the technical regulator, the FIA has been responsible for facilitating a resolution. Single-seater technical director Nikolas Tombazis emphasised that the debate never centred on accusations of illegality.
“There are a lot of nuances when discussing such a matter, because there is what the regulations intended, and to keep the compression ratio at 16:1 was one of the core objectives when the regulations were discussed with the PU manufacturers back in 2022, when they were finalised,” Tombazis explained.
“There is also the topic of what is exactly written in the regulations, and it became obvious that what was written allowed for ways in which one team could have a higher ratio. In terms of discussion of somebody cheating or breaking the rules, that has never been a topic.”
Tombazis acknowledged that discussions had been emotionally charged but reiterated that the FIA’s stance has consistently been that no team acted illegally.
“It is unavoidable that with new regulations there will be areas where solutions are found that go beyond what the rules originally intended. What we are trying to do with the e-vote is close this topic and find a solution.”
He further stressed the importance of maintaining a balance between regulatory clarity and preserving innovation within Formula 1’s technical framework. According to Tombazis, the FIA must avoid both overreaction and inaction, ensuring fairness without stifling development.
The compression ratio debate highlights the complexity of the 2026 power unit era, where fine regulatory wording can create competitive divergence. With a potential rule adjustment scheduled for mid-season 2026, the outcome of the PUAC vote will play a decisive role in shaping long-term competitive equilibrium.
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