Overview

• The Formula 1 Commission rejected a proposal from Red Bull and Ferrari to reduce the electric power output from 350 kW to 200 kW in the 2026 engine regulations.
• The 2026 power unit rules will maintain a 50/50 energy split between the internal combustion engine and electric components, signaling a major shift toward electrification in Formula 1.
• Mercedes, led by team principal Toto Wolff, strongly opposed any changes, citing the need for consistency and fairness in the regulations.
• The FIA introduced contingency measures, including additional test hours and budget-cap allowances, to support manufacturers struggling with performance or reliability in early 2026.
• The decision aims to prevent dominance by a single manufacturer, reflecting lessons learned from Mercedes' control during the 2014 hybrid era introduction.