Key Highlights
- Leaked documents seem to prove that Mercedes-AMG's engine may pass the compression ratio measurement with a cold engine, but as it warms up in race conditions the ratio also increases. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementEngine suppliers Audi, Ferrari, and Honda sent a joint letter to the FIA in late January requesting clarification on the rule, though the FIA did not seem to be interested in interfering with the Mercedes engine.
- This week, following a meeting of the Power Unit Advisory Committee, it seems the three manufacturers signed on to the letter are still interested in a regulatory intervention to change the compression ratio measuring method. In order to force F1's hand, Audi, Ferrari, and Honda needed to get Red Bull Ford Powertrains onboard, as a supermajority (four of the five engine manufacturers, plus the FIA and F1) is needed to push a regulation change this close to the season beginning. The rumor in the paddock is that Red Bull attempted to replicate Mercedes' efforts, but couldn't find the gains Mercedes did and instead leaked the documents to the other manufacturers in an effort to bring this to light.
- With support from Red Bull, the anti-Mercedes teams will have to hope that Formula One Management will vote their way. Read more: What Are The Rarest Cars Featured On Jay Leno's Garage?AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementIs Mercedes cheating?Mercedes-AMG testing on track - Formula OneMercedes team boss Toto Wolff was very clear about where he stands on his team's engine.
- "The power unit is legal," he said.
- "The power unit corresponds to how the regulations are written.