Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies has issued a warning regarding the potential ‘disastrous’ consequences for the team if the FIA does not overturn its initial Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities (ADUO) ruling. The governing body’s assessment has designated Red Bull Powertrains-Ford as possessing the strongest Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) for the 2026 Formula 1 season.
The ADUO system, introduced for the 2026-2030 power unit cycle, aims to prevent prolonged engine dominance. It provides struggling power unit manufacturers with structured opportunities to close performance gaps. This mechanism is embedded within the FIA’s Technical Regulations.
Under the regulations, the FIA monitors ICE performance at specific points during the season, calculating an ‘ICE Performance Index’. This index considers factors such as engine speed, input shaft torque, and MGU-K power output.
Manufacturers whose ICE is between 2% and 4% behind the benchmark receive one additional homologation upgrade for the current season and another for the following season. A deficit of 4% or more grants two upgrades for each season.
The FIA’s preliminary findings, communicated to teams after the Canadian Grand Prix, indicated Red Bull’s ICE as the benchmark. Consequently, Red Bull is currently the only manufacturer ineligible for these development allowances.
In contrast, Mercedes has qualified for one upgrade opportunity, while Ferrari, Audi, and Honda are each eligible for two additional homologation upgrades. These opportunities also include cost cap relief and extended dyno testing hours.
Red Bull expressed surprise at the FIA’s assessment, with Mekies confirming the team’s internal data does not support the conclusion of their ICE advantage over Mercedes. The team has formally requested a review of the calculations.
‘We certainly would like to have a deeper conversation because we do not see one single data sample that indicates that we would have an advantage over our friends at Mercedes,’ Mekies stated.
Mekies highlighted the significant implications of the ruling, not only for the current 2026 season but also for 2027 and potentially 2028. He stressed the importance of the FIA reaching a correct conclusion for the sport’s competitive balance.
A key point of contention is that the ADUO system focuses exclusively on the ICE, rather than the entire power unit, which includes hybrid components. This allows rival manufacturers to develop other parts of their power unit while Red Bull’s ICE development is restricted.
The FIA is currently reviewing its findings and exchanging data with Red Bull. The official release of the ADUO rankings has been delayed as these discussions continue.
Mekies confirmed that further meetings are scheduled to analyze the data jointly with the FIA, aiming to ensure a comprehensive and accurate picture of the engine pecking order.
