Toto Wolff opposes Ferrari receiving ADUO support in F1 engine development. Toto Wolff warns the FIA that the ADUO system should only help struggling manufacturers catch up.

Toto Wolff fears that the FIA could allow Ferrari to receive power unit development updates in the coming months thanks to the ADUO system.

The ADUO battle

While Formula 1 is partially questioning the foundations of the new regulations—which have started in an underwhelming way, especially in qualifying—teams are beginning to focus on the developments enabled by ADUO, the mechanism designed to help struggling engine manufacturers improve their power units.

The decision over which manufacturers, after the Miami Grand Prix and in the coming months, will benefit from initial power unit development assistance lies with the FIA. As expected, lobbying efforts have already begun, with teams attempting either to influence the governing body or at least apply pressure.

Mercedes, for example, believes that Ferrari should not receive development assistance, as Toto Wolff argues that ADUO is a tool meant solely to close performance gaps, not to create new ones.

Wolff’s comments

“In my view, there is one engine manufacturer that has a problem and we need to help them,” the Austrian said, clearly referring to Honda. “But then all the others are more or less in the same situation. So I would be very surprised—and disappointed—if ADUO decisions were to interfere with the current hierarchy.”

“The principle of ADUO was to allow teams that are behind to catch up, not to overtake the others,” he added. “It must be absolutely clear that, whatever decision is taken and whichever team receives ADUO support, any decision could have a major impact on the championship if it is not made with absolute precision, clarity, and transparency.”

“We have precise data, coming from our internal analysis, regarding the performance of our competitors’ engines. I believe the FIA is reviewing the same data and I certainly hope it remains committed to protecting the integrity of the sport.”

In summary, Toto Wolff’s firm stance on the ADUO highlights the intense technical and political competition defining the 2026 F1 season. By calling for absolute transparency and data-driven decisions, the Mercedes leader aims to prevent any regulatory interventions from artificially shifting the balance of power among the sport’s top engine manufacturers.