There are several unfortunate echoes from grand prix history in the controversy surrounding compression ratios in the new generation of hybrid engines. Formula 1 teams are naturally exhibiting a level of paranoia about the prospect of having competitive advantage – however slight – effectively locked in for the whole season.
For 2026, the compression ratio has been reduced from 18:1 to 16:1. The amount of compression naturally has an effect on the pressurisation of the air/fuel mixture and the combustion process, rendering this a critical area.
