At the start of winter testing in Bahrain, most discussions in the Formula 1 paddock revolve around two words: compression ratio. Rivals are keeping a close eye on the Mercedes power unit, which complies with the 16:1 limit during static tests, but can achieve a higher ratio while running on track.
Audi, Ferrari and Honda immediately asked for clarification in a joint letter to the FIA, with Red Bull’s position understood to be more nuanced than initially thought. It is now up to the FIA to answer the question of whether it wants to adjust the measurement procedures or not — and if so, on what timeframe.
