F1 Commission agrees to explore engine catch-up plan for 2026

The Formula 1 Commission convened on Thursday to address concerns over the 2026 engine regulations, agreeing to explore mechanisms that would help underperforming manufacturers close the performance gap next season.

With fears of a competitive imbalance emerging, reminiscent of Mercedes’ 2014 dominance, the FIA, F1, and teams are determined to prevent a lopsided grid when the new power units debut.

The 2026 rules, introducing a budget cap on engine programs, risk locking trailing manufacturers into prolonged struggles, as seen with Honda’s challenging 2015 entry. To counter this, the F1 Commission reached a preliminary consensus to allow lagging manufacturers additional dyno hours and extra budget cap headroom.

Critically, only power unit performance – not overall team results – will determine eligibility for these concessions.

“The F1 Commission discussed in principle refinements to the energy management strategy for 2026, as well as measures to address financial issues that can be faced by power unit manufacturers that experience either low performance or significant reliability issues in 2026,” the FIA stated.

These proposed catch-up provisions are expected to undergo further review by the Power Unit Advisory Committee before being finalized.

Battery Power Limits and Energy Strategy Stir Debate

The meeting also reignited fierce debate over the role of electric power in the upcoming 2026 engine format. One controversial proposal involved reducing the electric component during races to prevent scenarios where cars slow dramatically on straights due to depleted battery charge.

The suggestion proved divisive. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff dismissed the idea as a “joke,” while Red Bull boss Christian Horner—whose team is developing its own power unit in partnership with Ford—championed the proposal.

A potential compromise discussed involves limiting electric deployment only on circuits with long straights, such as Monza, rather than implementing a blanket change.

With teams still far apart on the issue, the Commission deferred any final decision, allowing for further technical analysis and debate in the months ahead.

The Thursday meeting also touched on several smaller but notable items.

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In response to the grass fires that interrupted the Japanese Grand Prix weekend, the Commission agreed to investigate using alternative skid materials like stainless steel and applying circuit-specific grass treatments.

These changes could have weight and durability implications, which are still under evaluation.

Additionally, the Commission approved amendments for mandatory two-stop strategies at the Monaco Grand Prix and adjusted capital expenditure allowances for new entrants like Cadillac, set to join in 2026.

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