Formula 1 could see significant changes in the championship standings after the FIA acted against a solution used by Mercedes and Red Bull Racing. The governing body has banned a trick involving the power unit that allowed teams to gain a speed advantage at the end of fast laps.
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This practice emerged after the introduction of the new power units this season. According to reports, Mercedes and Red Bull Powertrains-Ford found a way to bypass the mandatory energy reduction, normally applied as cars approach the timing line.
According to the report, the regulations require a gradual reduction of 50kW per second in power delivery. However, the two teams managed to maintain maximum supply for longer, providing an estimated advantage of between 50 and 100kW compared to competitors who followed the standard procedure.
The method exploited a rule that allows the MGU-K to be shut down in technical emergency situations. The measure was originally created to prevent damage to components, but Mercedes and Red Bull realized they could activate the system strategically.
Normally, using this feature triggers a 60-second lockout period, which could compromise performance during races or fast laps. However, the teams understood that the feature could be advantageous in the final section of the lap, as the subsequent cool-down lap would not require the use of the MGU-K.
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The situation also raised safety concerns during the Japanese GP. Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli and Red Bull Racing’s Max Verstappen suffered power loss, moving slowly through some corners, while Williams’ Alexander Albon had to come to a complete stop during one of the free practice sessions after complications related to the system, noting that Williams uses Mercedes engines.
According to the report, Ferrari raised questions about the safety risks associated with this practice. After discussions, the FIA reportedly issued new technical directives clarifying that the MGU-K shutdown must only be used in real emergencies, and not as a tool for performance gain.
With the decision, Formula 1 should see a shift in the balance between teams, especially in qualifying sessions, as the solution exploited by Mercedes and Red Bull can no longer be used.
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