Overview
- F1’s Power Unit Advisory Committee proposed verifying the 16:1 compression‑ratio limit at a representative 130°C from August 1, 2026, with a formal manufacturers’ vote underway and results expected in about 10 days.
- Rivals allege Mercedes gained by meeting the limit only in ambient static tests yet running a higher effective compression ratio at temperature, with media estimates putting the potential benefit at roughly three to four tenths per lap.
- Ferrari ended Bahrain testing quickest on the final day, yet multiple paddock assessments still place Mercedes slightly ahead overall on pace.
- McLaren team principal Andrea Stella said Ferrari and Mercedes look a step ahead, while broader readouts remain caveated by differing run plans and evolving track conditions.
- Practice starts proved troublesome across the field under the new turbo‑hybrid layout, with Ferrari’s smaller turbo aiding launches but engineers warning it could be a deficit at power‑sensitive tracks; George Russell cautioned Mercedes that poor getaways could hurt in Melbourne.