WHAT IS ADUO? HOW F1'S ENGINE CATCH-UP SYSTEM WORKS, AND BECAME POLITICAL

The FIA has unveiled its initial ADUO system findings for 2026 power units, immediately igniting political controversy. Surprisingly, Red Bull's new V6 engine leads the pack as the benchmark. Mercedes qualified for one upgrade token, assessed at 2-4% behind Red Bull's performance. Ferrari, Audi, and Honda each received two tokens, trailing by more than 4%.

The Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities (ADUO) system aims to prevent manufacturers from falling too far behind in engine performance, avoiding a repeat of Honda’s early hybrid era struggles. It grants additional dyno hours and cost cap allowances, ranging from $3 million to $11 million, based on the percentage deficit. This system specifically measures the V6 combustion engine, leading to conflicting claims about overall powertrain superiority when hybrid systems are factored in. Red Bull is reportedly seeking a review of the findings, having been surprised by their top ranking. Expect these ADUO allocations to fuel intense strategic and political battles as manufacturers chase engine supremacy.