The FIA's initial verdict on 2026 power unit Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities (ADUO) has sparked widespread surprise across the F1 paddock. Intended to help lagging manufacturers close the performance gap, the system's first assessment instead delivered a controversial outcome: Red Bull's 2026 engine was declared the benchmark, meaning they receive zero upgrade allowances.
Mercedes, surprisingly not deemed the benchmark, was granted one upgrade opportunity for both this season and next. Ferrari, Audi, and Honda will receive two upgrades. This decision defies track performance, where Mercedes' current power unit is widely regarded as superior. The ruling now ties Red Bull's hands on their future engine development, effectively preventing improvements to their new 2026 power unit. Meanwhile, Mercedes can continue to enhance their engine, potentially extending their advantage and making it harder for rivals to catch a moving target. The system designed to level the playing field could instead widen the gap for the next generation of F1 engines.
Read the full story at The Race
