Formula 1 implemented a new balancing factor this season, but Toto Wolff issued a direct warning to the FIA. The Mercedes boss called for caution in applying the new rule that allows extra assistance to power unit manufacturers with underperforming performance.
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This measure, called ADUO, Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities, was introduced by the FIA this year with the aim of preventing any manufacturer from falling too far behind competitors. However, Wolff fears that the mechanism could alter the competitive balance if not applied with clear criteria.
According to the executive, the system was created to allow disadvantaged teams to approach competitors, but not to overtake them: “The principle of ADUO was to allow teams that were behind in terms of power unit to catch up with the others, but not to overtake them,” Wolff stated.
The FIA intends to use performance data to determine who will be eligible for assistance. The first analysis is scheduled after the sixth round of the season, with new evaluations planned after rounds twelve and eighteen of the championship.
With Mercedes being considered the benchmark at the start of this year, other teams are reportedly already pushing to get authorization to use the system. Among them is Ferrari, which presented initial challenges to Mercedes in the Australian and Chinese races.
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Wolff emphasized that erroneous decisions can directly impact the championship: “Any decision can have a great impact on the performance scenario and the championship if it is not made with absolute precision, clarity, and transparency,” he said, reinforcing that the system should not open space for strategic maneuvers.
The Mercedes boss also highlighted that the application of ADUO must follow the original spirit of the rule: “It needs to be clear that there is no room for games here. The FIA must act with the correct spirit when applying ADUO, and teams will have their own performance assessments,” he added.
Among the manufacturers, Honda was the one that faced the most difficulties at the start of the season. Wolff acknowledged that the Japanese brand could meet the criteria but questioned requests from other competitors.
“From what it seems, there is one engine manufacturer with a problem and we need to help, while the others are practically at the same level. I would be very surprised and disappointed if ADUO decisions interfered with the current competitive order,” Wolff concluded.
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