Formula One’s governing body, the FIA has initiated a significant regulatory process that could reshape how Formula 1 power units are evaluated from the 2026 season onward.
In a statement released today, the governing body confirmed that “The FIA has recently launched an e-vote primarily centred on a proposed change to the assessment of the power unit compression ratio in running condition.”
The move comes amid ongoing technical discussions between the FIA and Formula 1’s Power Unit Manufacturers, particularly around how compression ratios behave under real operating conditions. As the sport prepares for its next major engine regulation cycle in 2026, ensuring clarity and fairness in power unit performance has become a priority.
A New Methodology for Measuring Compression Ratio
According to the FIA, the organization and the manufacturers have spent recent months working together to better understand how compression ratios shift from static to dynamic conditions. The statement explains that “Over recent weeks and months, the FIA and the Power Unit Manufacturers have collaboratively developed a methodology to quantify how the compression ratio changes from ambient to operating conditions.”
This collaborative approach reflects the FIA’s broader effort to maintain transparency and competitive balance as teams prepare for the new hybrid era.
Following successful validation of this new measurement method, the FIA has proposed a key regulatory update. As the statement continues: “Following validation of this approach, a proposal has been submitted whereby, from 1 August 2026, compliance with the compression ratio limit must be demonstrated not only at ambient conditions, but also at a representative operating temperature of 130°C.”
This would mark a major shift from the current system, which assesses compression ratios only under static, ambient conditions. The updated requirement aims to close potential loopholes and ensure that engines remain compliant even when running at full race temperatures.
Vote Underway, Outcome Expected Soon
The FIA confirmed that the proposal has now been formally submitted to the Power Unit Manufacturers for an electronic vote. As stated: “The vote has been submitted to the Power Unit Manufacturers, and its outcome is expected within the next 10 days and will be communicated in due course.”
Any regulatory amendment will still require final approval from the FIA World Motor Sport Council, the ultimate authority on rule changes in global motorsport.
What This Means for Formula 1
If approved, the updated compression ratio assessment could have immediate implications for engine development programs already underway for 2026. Manufacturers may need to adjust combustion chamber designs, materials, or cooling strategies to ensure compliance at the mandated 130°C operating temperature.
The proposal also reflects the FIA’s ongoing commitment to maintaining competitive parity as Formula 1 enters a new era of lighter, more efficient hybrid power units. With the 2026 regulations already prompting intense innovation, this additional layer of scrutiny aims to prevent unintended performance disparities.