F1 leaders Mercedes granted engine upgrades, none for Red Bull

LONDON, Aug 26: The FIA has granted Mercedes one additional engine homologation for 2026 and another for 2027, despite leading both Formula One championships by a significant margin. This decision comes after the governing body concluded that Red Bull, which had no wins in 2026, possessed the most potent power unit. Mercedes, who provide engines to four teams, was found to be within the 2-4 percent window for the first review period, which concluded after the Canadian Grand Prix in May.

Red Bull, the fourth-placed team with no victories this season, was deemed to have the strongest power unit, leading to the decision not to grant them any additional upgrades. The FIA's Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities (ADUO) mechanism was designed to prevent one manufacturer from establishing a significant advantage over rivals without them being able to respond.

Mercedes, Ferrari, Audi, and Honda were granted additional homologations in 2026 and 2027, while Red Bull was not mentioned, confirming their engine's benchmark status.