The FIA is working to resolve a major power unit controversy before the 2026 Formula 1 season begins, as teams dispute compression ratio limits in the new regulations. Ferrari, Honda, and Audi have raised concerns that Mercedes and Red Bull may have gained a performance advantage through a loophole in the rules. The compression ratio limit was lowered from 18.0 to 16.0 under the new regulations, but measurements are only taken when engines aren't running at full temperature.

FIA single seater director Nikolas Tombazis acknowledged that clever engineers have found ways to potentially increase the compression ratio when engines run hot, creating the current dispute. The governing body wants to solve these issues before the season starts on March 8 with the Australian Grand Prix, preferring competition on track rather than in courtrooms or stewards' rooms. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has pushed back against critics, telling complaining teams to 'get your s*** together' and accusing them of making excuses before the season even begins.

While some reports suggested rival teams might force regulatory changes through a 'super majority' vote, Sky Sports News reporter Craig Slater indicated that voting territory remains far off. The controversy comes amid what's considered the biggest regulation change in F1 history, with both chassis and power unit rules being implemented simultaneously.