Photo: RacePictures

F1 loophole mastermind offers firm stance on Mercedes and Red Bull's engine 'trick'

22:01, 24 Jan

byTobia Elia

Ross Brawn has weighed in on the much-debated engine compression-ratio 'trick' that has been at the centre of discussion ahead of the 2026 season.

“I think that’s standard fare in F1. There’s always something to argue about”

- Ross Brawn

The on-track season has not even begun yet, but the 2026 power units have already been at the centre of attention after reports that Mercedes — and potentially Red Bull — have found a way to increase the compression ratio of their engines.

This would be made possible as compliance checks are carried out in cold, static conditions, while the 'trick' would allow the compression ratio to be circumvented when the car is running — and therefore with the engine at operating temperature — delivering a significant performance advantage while remaining within the rules.

Speaking at the Autosport Awards, Ross Brawn — who knows a thing or two about regulatory loopholes, as highlighted by Brawn GP’s well-known double diffuser in 2009 — shared his view on the matter: “I think that’s standard fare in F1. There’s always something to argue about.

"Someone comes up with an innovative idea and others get frustrated by it. I think that’s just standard practice.”

Photo: RacePictures

Mercedes and Red Bull engine 'trick' not banned for now

After details of the so-called ‘trick’ emerged, Ferrari, Audi and Honda believed they have been left at a disadvantage and were convinced the solution in question breaches the regulations. They wanted the FIA to intervene.

GPblog has learned that the meeting this Thursday did not produce the result they were hoping for. It was less about the current interpretation, but what, if anything, needed to be amended for the future.

A ban on the 'trick' will definitely not happen before the start of the 2026 season - if ever, GPblog understands.

GPblog's latest F1 Paddock Update

Want to stay up-to-date with what happens in the F1 paddock? Then GPblog's F1 Paddock Update video is the perfect way to do it. Subscribe to GPblog's YouTube channel and turn on notifications to never miss the latest episodes.