Report Benz Red Bull discovered the compression leak in early December and the team subsequently asked the FIA ​​for clarification. According to the latest reports, ferrari Plans to protest against teams exploiting Australian Grand Prix loopholes.

The FIA ​​has introduced new rules for the 2026 season, which include new power units. The FIA ​​lowered the maximum compression ratio from 18:1 to 16:1 to incorporate the new regulations. However, Mercedes and Red Bull have reportedly found a way to increase the engine’s compression ratio when heated by using materials that expand when heated.

However, with the FIA ​​conducting compression ratio testing at ambient temperatures, the Brackley-based team will pass the test. As reports emerged, Honda, Ferrari and Audi protested and asked the FIA ​​for clarification.

A report published a few days ago suggested that the FIA ​​had given Mercedes permission to use an engine that exploited the flaw, with a guarantee that it would be dropped for the 2027 season. This is similar to the DAS (dual-axis steering system) used by Mercedes in 2020, which was allowed that season but banned in 2021.

According to the latest reports, the Maranello team has complained multiple times to the FIA, asking for clarification. According to F1 Insider, Ferrari plans to lodge the same protest at the Australian Grand Prix, demanding that cars must comply with regulations at all times.

“It is therefore clear that Ferrari is even considering protesting at the first race. Scuderia Ferrari cited the principle that cars must comply with technical regulations at all times,” the report reads

The FIA ​​has also introduced tougher testing following the Flexi wing controversy earlier this year. The wing complies with the test requirements when static, but flexes under load.

What advantage did Mercedes and Red Bull gain by exploiting the compression ratio loophole?

A higher compression ratio means Mercedes and Red Bull will be able to extract more mechanical energy from the air-fuel ratio (AFR). Because the AFR is further pressurized, greater combustion occurs, resulting in more horsepower.

According to reports, the loophole exploited by the team could be worth up to 15 horsepower and, depending on the layout of the track, as much as three-tenths of a second. With less than a month to go until pre-season testing, rivals will have to completely redesign their internal combustion engine units to exploit the flaw.

Mercedes was reportedly the first to discover the flaw. The Milton Keynes-based company did the same after one of Brackley’s employees joined Red Bull. However, a hybrid system will produce similar power to an internal combustion engine. Additionally, the introduction of sustainable fuels in 2026 will play an important role in determining which power units are the most efficient. All of these factors mean that, despite exploiting the vulnerability, the Brackley-based company doesn’t necessarily have the best power unit.