The possible change in Formula 1 engines for 2027 continues to divide manufacturers and is already starting to raise concerns involving Max Verstappen. Honda still avoids confirming support for the FIA’s proposal, while the four-time world champion threatens to leave the category if the plan does not progress.
Read more F1: Piastri apologizes after contact that took Albon out of the Canadian GP
After the Miami GP, the FIA announced that there was an “in principle” agreement to change the balance of future power units, moving from a 50/50 split to 60/40 between electric motor and combustion. The idea is to reduce battery dependence to prevent drivers from having to slow down during the lap to recharge energy.
Although there is consensus that changes are necessary, manufacturers differ on when to implement them. Red Bull and Mercedes advocate for introduction as early as 2027, but other manufacturers prefer to postpone to 2028. For approval, support from four of the six manufacturers involved in Formula 1 is required, including Cadillac, a scenario that currently seems unlikely.
Audi would be among the teams opposed to the early adoption due to high costs, estimated at around ten million dollars to adapt the engines again. Another point of conflict involves the ADUO program, a system that allows extra updates for manufacturers at a technical disadvantage. If the fuel flow increases in 2027, the mechanism would need to be eliminated, something that worries teams like Ferrari.
Honda would also be in favor of postponement, but Shintaro Orihara, the Japanese manufacturer’s track general manager, avoided officially confirming the position. “We are listening to the FIA’s decision, so we are waiting for their decision,” he said. Pressed about Honda’s vote, he added: “It is a major overhaul. It is hard to say.”
Verstappen made it clear in Montreal that he considers the change essential for the future of the category. “For me, F1 needs to be purer, and I really hope that what they are trying to do for next year happens, because that is necessary, the minimum necessary, to make things more natural and to return a bit to normal,” he said. Andrea Stella, McLaren’s chief, supported the Dutchman by saying that “the value of Formula 1 will suffer losses” if individual interests prevail.
Read more F1: Bortoleto avoids prolonging regret about the Canadian GP: «It’s time to turn the page»
