Formula 1 chiefs have agreed in principle to allow engine manufacturers lagging behind under the 2026 regulations to catch up.
The F1 Commission discussed mechanisms like increased dyno testing or budget allowances for underperforming suppliers.
However, a proposal to cut the electrical energy permitted in races faced strong opposition, particularly from Mercedes boss Toto Wolff, who dismissed it as a “joke.”
The idea aimed to prevent cars from running out of electrical deployment on straights, but Mercedes argues it’s premature to change rules before seeing the cars in action. Red Bull supports the reduction.
The 2026 rules significantly increase the hybrid power element, attracting new manufacturers like Audi and Red Bull Powertrains.
Concerns about potential performance differences have led to the catch-up mechanism discussions.
The FIA confirmed ongoing talks on both performance balancing and energy management for 2026.
Separately, discussions on preventing trackside grass fires, sparked by incidents in Japan, will continue, though a proposal to change skid block materials was not adopted.
