Honda set for extra lifeline as FIA tweaks F1’s ADUO process

The FIA has amended Formula 1’s 2026 power unit regulations by updating the timetable for its Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities (ADUO) system following the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix.

The move that could provide further assistance to struggling manufacturers such as Aston Martin’s future engine partner, Honda.

The ADUO mechanism was introduced for the new 2026 engine cycle to prevent a repeat of previous eras in which underperforming manufacturers needed several seasons to close the gap to rivals.

The system allows power unit suppliers that fall behind the competitive benchmark to access extra development concessions and financial flexibility.

Expanded assistance measures

Under the current regulations, manufacturers receive additional dyno hours and cost cap relief for every 2% deficit in internal combustion engine performance relative to the leading benchmark.

The FIA has now expanded the scale by adding a new category for manufacturers trailing by 10%, extending the previous upper limit of 8%.

An additional $8 million allowance has also been introduced for this season only.

Honda is widely regarded as the manufacturer most likely to benefit from the revised framework after encountering both performance and early reliability difficulties with its 2026 power unit project.

The regulations also specify which power unit components may be upgraded outside the standard homologation freeze through the ADUO mechanism, although the system is not intended to guarantee rapid competitive recovery.

Revised evaluation schedule

Originally, performance evaluations for ADUO eligibility were scheduled after rounds six, 12 and 18 of the championship. But following the removal of Bahrain and Saudi Arabia from the calendar, the FIA has revised those checkpoints.

The first review will now take place after round five at the Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal, followed by assessments after round 11 in Hungary and round 18 in Mexico.

• Read also: Aston Martin tight-lipped on upgrade timeline for troubled AMR26

The FIA also indicated that both the review periods and the methodology for measuring performance could still be altered if required.

“These ADUO periods may be adjusted by the FIA in the event of any significant change to the Competition calendar,” the governing body stated.

“The proposed 2% threshold and subsequent resolution of the ICE performance index will be validated or adjusted after conclusion of the ongoing activities between PU Manufacturers and F1 Teams related to the on-track ICE performance measurement.”

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