F1 | 2026 engine revolution with ADUO: what it is and how it works. The 2026 F1 season could see an engine revolution thanks to ADUO.

The 2026 Formula 1 engines could experience a short-term revolution: here’s what ADUO is and why it could reshuffle the cards on the grid.

Sprint qualifying in China once again highlighted Mercedes’ clear superiority, at least over a single lap. This advantage comes from an engine that optimally manages both electric energy and software, allowing the W17 to pull away when other teams struggle with super clipping. But this situation could already change in 2026 thanks to the ADUO, which will allow teams to make modifications to their F1 power units.

The FIA, in order to avoid a repeat of 2014, has taken a proactive approach, allowing teams to work on their engines during this season if they fall behind. This decision has already sparked some controversy, with critics claiming that Mercedes might be running a restricted engine to prevent other suppliers from developing their own power units. But let’s take a closer look at what ADUO is and why it could revolutionize not only the 2026 season but also the current cycle of engine regulations.

ADUO: a lifeline for the teams falling behind

ADUO (the English acronym for Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities) provides a chance for performance convergence among all engine manufacturers. It should not be confused with the BOP used in the WEC. At three key points in the season, the FIA will facilitate engine development for teams deemed to be lagging behind. These milestones are the 6th, 12th, and 18th rounds of the season, although the distribution may change due to the increasingly likely cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix.

The FIA will assess the thermal engine power of all suppliers. If a team’s power unit is more than 2% behind the best engine on the grid (roughly 10 horsepower less), the FIA will grant an extra upgrade for the 2026 season and even for the following year. If the deficit rises to 4%, the team will be allowed two upgrades, similar to the tokens system used at the start of the hybrid era. Multiple engine manufacturers could receive ADUO at the same time.

The FIA has also reserved the right to revoke ADUO in case of misuse. A careful reading of the regulations reveals a clause designed to discourage sandbagging—intentionally reducing performance. This prevents teams from hiding their competitiveness in order to qualify for ADUO benefits.

Additionally, the Federation may make discretionary decisions if it deems that the ADUO advantages are too significant. The goal is to avoid a paradoxical situation where a team that was initially behind could leap ahead of those who did not receive ADUO simply because their engine was stronger at that moment.