Ferrari dismisses concerns over potential 2026 power unit manipulation. Ferrari is confident in the new 2026 power unit development rules in Formula 1.

Ferrari is not worried about the possibility that the new Formula 1 engine development rules could be “circumvented” by rival power unit manufacturers. For the 2026 season, the Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities (ADOU) system has been introduced, which involves evaluating the performance of each of the five engine suppliers after every sixth Grand Prix (Miami, Belgium, and Singapore).

How the ADOU system works

Under this system, if a manufacturer is found to have a power deficit of 2–4% compared to the best-performing power unit, they are granted one upgrade. If the gap exceeds 4%, two upgrades are allowed. In theory, this mechanism could allow a manufacturer to initially “hide” its performance to gain more development opportunities. However, Ferrari’s Head of Engines, Enrico Gualtieri, does not have particular concerns about the new system.

Gualtieri’s perspective

“Regarding the ADOU, the mechanism is designed to allow upgrades and additional development opportunities during the season,” Enrico Gualtieri explained. “It is a new process for everyone: for the FIA and for the power unit manufacturers, and I believe it is defined fairly clearly regarding what is permitted. Naturally, it will take some time to get used to the system and its outcomes, but I think it is solid enough to achieve what we consider the ultimate goal of this mechanism. At the moment, we are fully comfortable with the process and remain in contact with the FIA in case further needs arise, but for now, it works well for us.”

Ferrari’s stance reflects a broader confidence in the governance of the 2026 technical landscape, prioritizing clear regulations over the fear of paddock gamesmanship. By embracing the ADOU system as a necessary tool for long-term parity, Enrico Gualtieri and his team are positioning themselves to react dynamically to the competitive order as it shifts throughout the year. As the first evaluations in Miami approach, all eyes will be on how the FIA interprets the data and whether this new era of regulated development truly prevents one manufacturer from running away with the championship.