“LARGE RISK” RED BULL WILL BE UNABLE TO UPGRADE ENGINE DUE TO FIA’S ADUO DECISION – MEKIES

Red Bull faces a potential performance hit after the FIA surprisingly ruled their new Red Bull-Ford power unit has F1's best combustion engine under the Additional Development Upgrade Opportunity (ADUO) rules. This decision could grant rivals like Mercedes and Ferrari more upgrade opportunities while severely limiting Red Bull’s ability to develop their own engine.

Team Principal Laurent Mekies called the preliminary finding a "large risk," expressing Red Bull's surprise and concern over "large implications" for both this season and next. Red Bull is actively lobbying the FIA, providing extensive data to ensure the governing body has the "full picture" before a final conclusion. Max Verstappen even noted a lack of power over team radio, seemingly underscoring Red Bull's position.

The outcome of this review is critical. If the FIA maintains its stance, Red Bull's title defense and long-term engine competitiveness could face a significant hurdle, potentially racing without equal development flexibility.