The FIA has provided further clarification regarding one of the most discussed technical topics ahead of Formula 1’s new power-unit era: the ADUO mechanism. As manufacturers continue preparing for the major regulation changes arriving in 2026, questions have emerged about how the FIA intends to monitor performance differences and potentially assist engine suppliers that fall behind their rivals.
At the center of the debate is ADUO, short for Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities, a regulatory tool designed to prevent excessive performance gaps between power-unit manufacturers. The system has attracted significant attention after preliminary FIA assessments revealed notable differences in internal combustion engine performance among the various suppliers preparing for the next generation of Formula 1 regulations.
ADUO rankings trigger discussion across the paddock
The issue gained momentum during the Monaco Grand Prix weekend when the FIA shared informal reference data with manufacturers. According to the initial findings, Red Bull Powertrains emerged as the benchmark in terms of internal combustion engine output, placing ahead of Mercedes, Ferrari, Honda and Audi.
The figures surprised several observers because previous estimates had suggested a different competitive order. Under the FIA’s evaluation, Mercedes appeared relatively close to the benchmark, while Ferrari was assessed as having a larger performance deficit. Honda and Audi were reported to be even further behind based on the available data.
The publication of those figures quickly generated reactions throughout the paddock. Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies was among those calling for a reassessment of certain aspects of the analysis, highlighting the complexity involved in accurately comparing modern Formula 1 power units.
Why the FIA chose to focus only on combustion engines
FIA single-seater technical director Nikolas Tombazis has now offered a detailed explanation of the philosophy behind the methodology. According to the Greek engineer, the manufacturers themselves supported a simplified approach that would focus exclusively on the internal combustion engine rather than attempting to evaluate every element of the power unit package.
Tombazis explained that a more comprehensive analysis would have required the FIA to account for numerous variables capable of influencing power output calculations. Factors like plenum temperatures, turbocharger operating conditions and exhaust system characteristics can all affect performance measurements and make direct comparisons significantly more complicated.
To avoid endless disputes over interpretation and data collection, the manufacturers reportedly agreed that a simplified benchmark based primarily on combustion engine performance would provide a more practical solution.
The electric battle is expected to decide the competitive order
The FIA’s reasoning also reflects a broader expectation regarding the 2026 Formula 1 regulations. While combustion engine efficiency remains important, many experts believe the electrical side of the new power units will become the key differentiator between manufacturers.
The upcoming regulations dramatically increase the importance of electrical energy deployment, making battery performance, energy recovery systems and power management strategies critical areas of development. As a result, the FIA expects manufacturers to gain competitive advantages primarily through their hybrid technologies rather than through the internal combustion engine alone.
By concentrating ADUO calculations on the combustion component, regulators aim to leave room for manufacturers to compete freely in the area where innovation is expected to have the greatest impact.
What it means for Ferrari, Mercedes and Red Bull
For Ferrari, Mercedes and Red Bull Powertrains, the discussion highlights how difficult it remains to accurately assess the true competitive picture ahead of 2026. Internal combustion engine rankings tell only part of the story, while the hybrid systems that will play an increasingly important role remain largely hidden from public view.
That means Ferrari’s reported gap to Red Bull in the FIA’s preliminary assessment should not necessarily be interpreted as an indication of overall power-unit competitiveness. The final performance hierarchy will depend on how effectively each manufacturer integrates its combustion engine, electrical systems, battery technology and energy management strategies.
With more than a year of development still remaining before the new regulations are fully implemented, significant changes in the competitive landscape remain possible. What is already clear, however, is that the FIA’s ADUO system will continue to be closely scrutinized as manufacturers battle for an advantage in Formula 1’s next technological era.
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