The 2026 Formula 1 season has not yet started, but it has already begun to generate controversy. In the midst of preparations for the new regulatory cycle, a technical controversy shook the paddock and ended up leaving Cadillac and Checo Pérez in a scenario that could complicate their debut from the first Grand Prix.
According to reports that emerged before the official start of the campaign, several manufacturers raised their complaints against Mercedes and Red Bull Powertrains, considering that both structures would have found a way to take advantage of a “loophole” within the new power unit regulations.
FIA endorses “gap” in engines
The main concern revolves around an alleged adjustment that would allow the engines to reach a hot 18:1 ratio.
When cold checks are maintained at 16:1.
In layman’s terms, the complaint indicates that this technical margin could translate into up to 10 extra horsepower.
A difference that, in a category as closed as Formula 1, can be decisive.
In view of the doubts and the risk of different interpretations of the regulations, the FIA convened a meeting with engine manufacturers.
The purpose of this is to analyze the situation.
The meeting was attended by key teams and brands, including Ferrari, the manufacturer indicated as the supplier of power units for Cadillac, the new project where Checo Perez is enlisted.
However, the result was not as expected for those who filed the complaints.
The complaints from Ferrari, Honda and Audi had no effect:
The FIA did not come to any decision that would stop this concept, so the “loophole” in the regulations will be considered legal when the 2026 season officially begins.
A technical controversy rocked the paddock
QuéOnnda.com
Cadillac and Checo start under pressure
This leaves a clear conclusion:
While Mercedes and Red Bull seem to have found an advantage from early development, Cadillac – a team still preparing for its first major campaign – could start at a disadvantage against rivals with established structures.
For U.S. Hispanic fans, this context also matters for another reason:
2026 will be a season with an extended calendar and several key dates in the Americas:
Such as Miami (May 1-3), the United States (October 23-25), Mexico (October 30-November 1) and Las Vegas (November 19-21).
With that scenario, the debut of Cadillac and Checo Perez could start with more pressure than expected:
Not only for adapting to a new team, but also for facing a technical battle that was already underway before the first green flag.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
