Feb.10 (GMM) The FIA has promised to resolve Formula 1’s rapidly escalating 2026 engine compression dispute before the season-opening Australian GP, as political pressure mounts around Mercedes’ controversial interpretation of the new power unit rules.
In an official FIA interview, single-seater director Nikolas Tombazis confirmed the governing body is actively working on a solution and wants the matter settled before racing begins in Melbourne.
“My intention is that we find a solution before the start in Melbourne,” Tombazis said. “We don’t want a fight. We want the competition to be fought on the track, not in a court of law or the stewards’ room.”
The controversy centres on the newly introduced 16:1 compression ratio limit for 2026, which replaced the previous 18:1 threshold. Rival manufacturers believe Mercedes has identified a way to remain compliant during static, cold measurements while achieving a higher effective compression ratio once the engine is running at operating temperatures.
Although Tombazis did not name Mercedes directly, he acknowledged the issue.
“Some have apparently found ways to increase compression when the engine heats up under load,” he said, confirming that the FIA only recently became aware of the potential loophole.
Tombazis defended the rationale behind the new restriction, stressing that the 16:1 cap was introduced to ensure competitive fairness under the cost cap.
“We wanted the new manufacturers to be able to compete on a fair level,” he explained. “Otherwise, there would have been a risk that they would have started at a disadvantage, and with the budget cap it would have been very difficult to make up for that deficit.”
While critics argue the dispute exposes a regulatory failure, Tombazis rejected that framing.
“Of course, it is always our goal that everything is clearly regulated,” he said. “But when the rules change so drastically, there are always many points that cannot be foreseen.”
Pointing to the imbalance in manpower between the FIA and the teams, he added: “They have several thousand engineers. It’s inevitable that sometimes they find something nobody here has thought of.”
Still, Tombazis was clear about the FIA’s intent. “We are determined to make this a championship of competition between the best drivers, the best engineers and the best teams – not a championship of rule interpretation.”
Audi, Ferrari, Honda and Red Bull reportedly now form a united bloc pushing for clarification, giving them a potential supermajority to force a procedural change – provided Formula 1 and the FIA agree. One option under discussion is altering the compression measurement method, potentially testing engines in heated conditions.
Any late change would have major consequences for Mercedes and its customer teams McLaren, Williams and Alpine, who could be forced into costly revisions just weeks before homologation.
McLaren CEO Zak Brown downplayed the drama. “That’s just typical Formula 1 politics,” he said. “The engine is fully compliant with the regulations. This sport has always been about pushing the boundaries.”
Honda-powered F1 veteran Fernando Alonso, meanwhile, struck a conciliatory tone. “I trust the FIA to control and monitor it,” the Aston Martin driver said. “You have to accept the final decision.”
The Indianapolis 500 is an American tradition, and the 2026 race marks the 110th year of this historic event. Guests of Grand Prix Tours will enjoy premium accommodations, options for exclusive suite access, and unforgettable race-day experiences, including a police escort to the track. Highlights include visits to the newly renovated Indy 500 Museum, Gasoline Alley, and the Dallara IndyCar Factory, plus patriotic pre-race festivities like the singing of “Back Home Again in Indiana.” Join us for our 41st trip to the legendary Indy 500!
SHOW PACKAGES
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal, a fan favorite on the F1 calendar. The city comes alive for race week packed with energy, events, and unforgettable nightlife. This year, the action shifts to Memorial Day weekend (late May), part of F1’s new, eco-friendly schedule. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the atmosphere where motorsport meets Montreal magic. Book your spot now this one sells out fast!
SHOW PACKAGES