F1 giants are at odds over the 2026 engine rules, with electric power balance fueling fresh tensions ahead of Thursday’s key vote.
Tensions are building ahead of this week’s F1 Commission meeting, where teams will revisit the controversial 2026 engine regulations. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff didn’t mince words, calling one item on the agenda a “farce.”
At the heart of the debate is how power should be split between traditional internal combustion engines and electric units in 2026. Current plans aim for a 50/50 split, but some manufacturers, concerned about energy recovery limits during races, want to shift that balance to 66% combustion and 34% electric.
Earlier this month, F1 leaders and major automakers met to discuss a radical rethink of the upcoming engine rules—including even the possibility of reviving the iconic V10 engines. While that idea didn’t gain much traction, the 50/50 power split surprisingly escaped scrutiny—until now.
Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner has voiced concern about the proposed power distribution, warning it could lead to cars losing speed or power mid-race.
“The FIA has done its research, and they’re clearly trying to avoid any stuttering or slowdowns during a Grand Prix. That kind of unpredictability isn’t good for the show, and it’s frustrating for the drivers,” Horner said.
Some believe Red Bull and Ferrari, both seen as backers of a V10 comeback, are worried their 2026 engines may fall short of Mercedes’ rumored progress.
“Mercedes seems very confident with the development work they’ve done for next year,” Horner admitted.
According to sources, Red Bull and Ferrari have pushed for Thursday’s meeting to include a vote on potentially revising the 50/50 power split. Horner denies formally requesting such a change—but he’s not against it either.
“It’s not something we asked for. But if it’s genuinely in the best interest of the sport, then we’re open to it.”
Ferrari team boss Frédéric Vasseur also weighed in, urging teams to keep the discussion constructive and transparent.
“We need to avoid public clashes over this. If someone thinks they have an edge with battery performance or something else, fine—but fighting about it helps no one,” Vasseur said.
He confirmed that Ferrari supports reopening the discussion, which comes as no surprise. Rumors suggest the Scuderia is a few steps behind Mercedes in terms of energy recovery development.
“We’ve never seen such a major regulation shift. For the first time, we’re developing a new chassis and a new engine while the rules are still evolving,” Vasseur added.
“It’s a challenge for everyone—teams and the FIA alike. So let’s talk it through this week and try to find a compromise that works for all.”
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F1 Power Struggle: 2026 Engine Row Splits Top Teams F1 Power Struggle: 2026 Engine Row Splits Top Teams
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