Thermal Warfare: F1 Rivals Unite to Melt Mercedes’ Engine Edge

How the FIA plans to resolve the Mercedes engine dispute: Static vs dynamic compression checks

After Red Bull Powertrains aligned itself with Honda, Ferrari and Audi, the balance of power has shifted in the search for a solution to the controversial Mercedes compression ratio. During the latest meeting of the Power Unit Advisory Committee, a convergence reportedly emerged in an effort to avoid protests and counter-protests. Let’s take a closer look at what is happening. No one wants a political war in Formula 1 at the debut of the new reg…

Thermal warfare: F1 rivals unite to melt Mercedes’ engine edge

©Mercedes Michael Delaney 07/02/2026 at 08:1206/02/2026 at 22:39 40 SHARES Share on.. Share on.. Share on.. Behind closed doors and in hurried conference calls, Mercedes’ rivals are scrambling to forge a united front over Formula 1’s simmering compression ratio controversy – and they want a resolution before next month’s season-opening...

FIA Moves Toward Heated Compression Checks Amid 2026 Engine Dispute – Motorsports Media & Racing News

The FIA is reviewing its compression‑ratio verification procedure following formal complaints from multiple power unit manufacturers regarding temperature‑sensitive piston designs used in Formula 1’s 2026 engines. Current regulations mandate a 16:1 compression ratio, measured only during static, ambient‑temperature checks. Rival teams argue that certain piston materials expand under operating heat, enabling higher effective ratios on track while…