According to reports, Mercedes has taken an early lead in the race to develop Formula 1’s 2026 engine regulations. F1 teams have already initiated their development projects and aim to subject their power units to testing in 2024, with Mercedes holding a lead of “several months,” as per Italian publication Formu1a.uno.
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The same report indicates that Audi, planning to enter as a full power unit manufacturer in 2026, is facing the most challenges in securing top engineering talent. Audi is reportedly still keen on recruiting former Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto, who has also garnered significant interest from Alpine and McLaren.
The 2026 F1 engine regulations, featuring a balanced split between internal combustion and electrical power, each accounting for approximately 50 percent, were approved in August the previous year. Six prominent manufacturers, namely Mercedes, Ferrari, Alpine (Renault), Red Bull-Ford, Honda, and Audi, have committed to these groundbreaking engine rules.
Recent revelations have emerged regarding plans to make F1 cars considerably smaller and lighter starting in 2026.
