How competitive he will be in Formula 1’s new era, which begins in 2026, depends largely on one decisive factor: the power unit developed by Red Bull Powertrains in partnership with Ford.

Although the four-time world champion has dominated recent seasons, the sweeping regulation changes for 2026 mean that nothing can be taken for granted. Now, a technical controversy is adding extra tension to the countdown.

 

 

Rumours are fuelling growing tensions in the paddock

Formula 1 appears to be heading towards a new technical dispute. Rumours are circulating in the paddock that Mercedes and Red Bull Powertrains/Ford may have found a way to boost their power units’ performance without formally breaching the regulations. According to rival manufacturers, this alleged ‘trick’ could deliver a substantial power boost under the 2026 ruleset.

At the heart of the discussion is the engine’s compression ratio. For 2026, the FIA has set a static compression ratio of 16:1, measured at ambient temperature during scrutineering. However, critics claim that certain manufacturers may be exploiting thermal expansion during engine operation to effectively raise that ratio when the engine is running at full temperature.

 

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Thermal expansion is under scrutiny

The theory is relatively simple, but its implications are potentially far-reaching. As engine components heat up during operation, they expand. According to rumours, Mercedes and RBPT/Ford may be using this effect to increase the effective compression ratio to as much as 18:1 once the engine is running.

Such a gain would not be trivial. It is said that an increase of around 15 horsepower is being discussed, alongside improvements in overall efficiency. In a tightly regulated formula such as Formula 1, this margin could be crucial, especially in the early years of a new technical cycle.

Unsurprisingly, rival engine manufacturers have taken notice. Several have reportedly approached the FIA to clarify whether this interpretation of the rules is acceptable. Representatives of the governing body and the power unit manufacturers are due to meet on 22 January, with the outcome still uncertain.

 

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Red Bull Powertrains has responded calmly

During the recent Red Bull and Ford presentation in Detroit, RBPT Director Ben Hodgkinson was asked directly about the alleged trick. The Briton appeared relaxed and dismissive of the growing speculation.

“I imagine there’s some nervousness among the engine manufacturers that some teams have devoted considerable engineering resources to this,” he said. He played down the significance of the rumours, suggesting that such debates are nothing new in Formula 1.

“I don’t know how much weight to give to all this talk. I’ve been in this business for quite some time, and most of the time it’s just noise. Everyone should concentrate on their own work.”

 

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Pushing the limits, within the rules

Hodgkinson stressed that Red Bull Powertrains is confident in its approach. ‘I know what we’re doing, and I’m confident that everything we’re doing complies with the regulations,’ he explained. While admitting that RBPT is pushing the boundaries, he emphasised that this is standard practice across the grid.

‘Yes, we’re pushing the limits of the rules. And I’d be genuinely surprised if the others weren’t doing the same.’

From an engineering perspective, Hodgkinson questioned the FIA’s chosen limit. ‘The compression ratio is already set too low,’ he said. ‘We could easily run at 18:1; the power units would handle it without any problem.’

As the 2026 era approaches, one thing is clear: if Verstappen is to continue winning with a Ford-powered Red Bull, the battle will be fought as much in meeting rooms and engineering offices as on the racetrack.

 

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NEXT ARTICLE – Cadillac Trusts AI With Its Formula 1 Future

Cadillac’s F1 Gamble: Can artificial intelligence deliver results? – Cadillac’s preparations for their highly anticipated entry into Formula 1 are progressing behind the scenes, with artificial intelligence set to play a pivotal role. The American manufacturer has announced a partnership with IFS, an industrial AI software specialist, in a move designed to help the new team operate efficiently and stay within Formula 1’s strict cost cap regulations.

For a team entering the sport for the first time in over a decade, the challenge lies in being competitive without the inefficiencies that often affect new operations. Cadillac’s decision to embed AI-driven systems from the outset signals a strategy focused on structure, automation, and long-term sustainability rather than short-term improvisation.

 

The IFS partnership covers the entire operation

Under the agreement, IFS will become Cadillac Formula 1’s official technology partner and will work with the team from March 2024. The software provider will support a wide range of activities, including supply chain management, production planning, and quality control.

These areas are becoming increasingly important in modern Formula 1, where the speed of development must be balanced against financial constraints. By using AI to monitor workflows, predict bottlenecks and optimise resource allocation, Cadillac aims to reduce waste and eliminate unnecessary manual processes. The IFS brand will also be prominently featured across team assets, including the cars, driver suits, and team apparel…READ MORE ON THIS STORY