Nielsen Challenges Rivals to Protest Mercedes

Formula 1, Sportrik Media – Steve Nielsen has challenged Mercedes’ rivals to lodge a formal protest over the compression ratio controversy, arguing that the 2026 Formula 1 power unit regulations are clearly written and should not be altered through political pressure.

From 2026, Alpine F1 Team becomes a customer of Mercedes High Performance Powertrains, having relinquished its works status in pursuit of improved competitiveness under the new regulatory era. The revised power unit rules mandate a 16:1 compression ratio, replacing the previous 18:1 limit.

The dispute centres on Mercedes HPP’s interpretation of the rules. It is understood that the manufacturer has developed a solution using materials that expand under operating temperatures, effectively increasing compression closer to 18:1 when the engine is running. However, the regulations specify that the compression ratio is measured at ambient temperature, meaning the engine passes scrutineering once cooled.

“It very clearly says it is measured at ambient temperature,” Nielsen told media, including RacingNews365, during pre-season testing in Bahrain.

Rival manufacturers such as Red Bull Racing, Scuderia Ferrari, Audi and Honda are reportedly pushing for a rule change so that compression ratios would be tested at operating temperature instead. Nielsen warned that such a move could set a dangerous precedent.

“My personal view is I’m not concerned, because the regulations are crystal clear on when the compression ratio is measured,” he stated.

“Some people are trying to introduce different parameters to that, and that’s for reasons best known to themselves.”

“We’ve got full confidence in Mercedes. They’ve built a power unit in good faith with a very clear set of regulations, and we trust the governing body to do the right thing.”

With an F1 Commission meeting scheduled in Bahrain between the two official pre-season tests, the issue is expected to be formally discussed. Nielsen suggested that if competitors feel strongly, they should pursue the proper regulatory channels rather than lobbying for late amendments.

“If they really feel that strongly, then put some skin in the game and protest in Melbourne,” he said.

He further cautioned that allowing clearly written regulations to be altered due to competitive dissatisfaction could undermine long-term stability in the sport.

“If we’re saying that a very clearly written set of regulations can be challenged in this way, then what else is off limits? Teams invest a huge amount of time and money in good faith.”

“If everything can be challenged for reasons other than safety, then that’s a completely different world.”

As Formula 1 enters a transformative regulatory cycle in 2026, the FIA and Formula One Management now face a pivotal decision: uphold the written framework or risk opening the door to broader reinterpretations ahead of the season opener in Melbourne.