Red Bull at 'large risk' of being unable to upgrade F1 engine if review results stand, says team principal

Red Bull’s engine upgrade outlook is in jeopardy, with team principal Laurent Mekies saying the team faces “a large risk” of being unable to update its current Formula 1 power unit if FIA ADUO review results stand. Speaking during a Friday news conference in Spielberg, Austria, Mekies noted that after the 2026 Monaco Grand Prix, an FIA analysis concluded Red Bull had the best internal combustion engine (ICE) part, though not necessarily the full engine. The FIA assessed multiple review windows across 2026, with one covering races including Australia, China, Japan, Miami, and Canada. Mercedes was found 2% to under 4% behind Red Bull’s ICE, making it eligible for two upgrades—one in 2026 and one in 2027—while others were 4% or more behind and could receive four upgrades total. Red Bull says it was surprised, requested a review, and is sharing data, potentially affecting both the 2026 and 2027 campaigns. The regulations allow upgrades across numerous components beyond the ICE.