Ferrari, Audi and Honda file complaint with FIA against Mercedes and Red Bull. What’s it about?

The 2026 Formula 1 season will bring major regulatory changes, but even before the new rules have come into effect, teams are already lodging complaints against each other.

Details: According to Motorsport Magazine, three teams — Ferrari, Audi and Honda — have filed a complaint with the FIA against Mercedes and Red Bull. They claim that Mercedes and Red Bull have allegedly found a way to bypass the rules and develop engines with an 18:1 compression ratio, whereas the 2026 regulations stipulate a maximum of 16:1.

If true, this could increase power by around 15 hp, potentially giving an advantage on track. The challenge, however, is that even if the FIA imposes sanctions or decisions now, other manufacturers may not have enough time to catch up to Mercedes and Red Bull before the season starts, or the two teams may need to rebuild their engines.

Recently, Formula 1 announced on social media platform X the official return of the Portuguese Grand Prix. The race will take place at the Algarve International Circuit, also known as Portimão.

Reminder: Max Verstappen has declined the status of reigning Formula 1 world champion and will not race with the number 1 next season. However, he also will not return to his iconic number 33.