F1 no longer wants the 2026 regulations and is focusing on V10s: from Germany, Audi is putting the brakes on Ferrari (and Red Bull)’s enthusiasm. There are many concerns and doubts regarding a technical project that, the closer it gets, the less it convinces those involved. However, changing is not realistic: too many promises have been made, too many investments have been made. And now, from Neuburg, they are making their voice heard.
The moods in the fastest paddock in motorsport change quickly. Between 2022 and 2023, with Red Bull’s dominance and porpoising issues, many criticized the current technical regulations of Formula 1. Today, after a beautiful and competitive season, there are fears about the future. Fears so chilling that they make you think the opposite: delay the 2026 revolution and race with these cars for another year.
Whispers from the paddock that, at first glance, might even excite, especially when associated with the so-called “return of the V10s.” However, upon reflection, it becomes immediately hard to imagine such a major turnaround. What would happen to all the investments made in the upcoming Power Units? And what would Audi and Honda think, one arriving and the other staying in the Circus precisely thanks to the upcoming technical regulations?
Audi reiterates the reasons for its F1 entry
While Ferrari and Red Bull are at the forefront of bringing the V10s back to F1, shortening the lifespan of the upcoming Power Units from five years to only two or three, others are reminding of their decision-making weight. This is the case with the Four Rings, which, after a brief period of silence on the matter, respond to a request from The Race.
“The upcoming regulatory changes, including the new hybrid Power Unit regulations set for the 2026 season and beyond, were a key factor in Audi’s decision to enter Formula 1. These regulations reflect the same technological advancements driving innovation in Audi’s road cars.”
From Neuburg, they make it clear that these engines are the reason why the Germans will be on the grid from 2026. And it’s reasonable to think that Honda, which stayed in Formula 1 thanks to the new technical regulations and is set to supply Power Units for Aston Martin, shares the same view.
Who is open to (another) revolution: Ferrari, Red Bull, and…
Starting in 2026, there will be five Power Unit suppliers on the grid. Ferrari, Honda, and Mercedes, after Renault’s departure, will be joined by RBPT-Ford and Audi. Among them, as mentioned, those most open to a regulatory change are Maranello and Milton Keynes, as further suggested by Jon Noble of The Race.
Brackley has a different position, as, while emphasizing the need for an “open-minded” approach to new proposals, it reaffirms the importance of the 2026 regulations. According to Toto Wolff, these regulations will be a success and a fundamental driving force for having brands like Audi and Honda on the grid.
Shortening the lifespan of the next Power Units requires the approval of the FIA, FOM, and at least four of the five manufacturers. Delaying the 2026 regulations, on the other hand, requires unanimous approval. Both solutions, at the moment, seem unrealistic.
Source: f1ingenerale
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