The FIA has confirmed that no additional engine upgrades will be awarded to Formula 1’s power unit manufacturers after the final review period of the 2026 season. The Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities (ADUO) system, introduced alongside the new power units, allows less competitive engines to receive upgrades based on performance gaps. Following analysis of races 12 to 18, the FIA stated that while performance gaps evolved, they did not meet the threshold for further homologations.
Red Bull was ranked highest in the first period, with Mercedes, Ferrari, Audi, and Honda receiving upgrade allocations based on their deficits. The second period also yielded no new upgrades. The FIA cited confidentiality for not releasing detailed performance metrics.
Despite Mercedes winning the first five races, Red Bull was deemed to have the best engine. Mercedes later secured both the drivers’ and constructors’ titles in Brazil. The lack of further upgrades suggests no manufacturer has significantly closed the gap to Red Bull.
Source: Sky Sports Champions League · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing