The FIA is reportedly preparing to review the results of its Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities (ADUO) assessment after concerns were raised by Red Bull Racing regarding the initial findings.
ADUO was introduced as part of Formula 1’s new 2026 power unit regulations to help manufacturers that fall behind their rivals in engine performance. The system is designed to allow struggling engine suppliers extra opportunities to develop and improve their power units during the homologation period.
Under the rules, manufacturers whose Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) Performance Index is between two and four per cent behind the leading engine supplier become eligible for one additional homologation upgrade in the current season and another in the following year. If a manufacturer’s performance deficit exceeds four per cent, they can receive two additional upgrade opportunities during the qualifying season.
During the Monaco Grand Prix weekend, the FIA informed teams of the results from its analysis of data gathered over the opening five races of the 2026 campaign. The assessment focused exclusively on power unit performance and did not take chassis performance into account.
According to the FIA’s evaluation, Red Bull Powertrains emerged as the benchmark engine supplier on the grid. As the best-performing manufacturer, Red Bull does not qualify for any ADUO concessions, meaning it cannot take advantage of the additional development opportunities available to slower competitors.
Leaked information from the assessment suggested that Mercedes ranked second in the performance index. As a result, Mercedes would be entitled to one additional homologation upgrade this season and another next year. Meanwhile, Audi, Honda, and Ferrari were reportedly found to be further behind the leading benchmark and therefore qualify for two upgrade opportunities under the ADUO framework.
The findings have significant implications for Red Bull. The Milton Keynes-based team had been expected to benefit from the ADUO system if its new power unit required additional development. However, being classified as the strongest-performing engine supplier means the team will not receive any extra upgrade allowances while several rivals gain opportunities to improve.
Reports now indicate that Red Bull challenged aspects of the FIA’s calculations and methodology, prompting the governing body to agree to review the underlying data. The reassessment could determine whether the original rankings accurately reflect engine performance or whether adjustments are required.
Any change to the ADUO results could have a major impact on the competitive balance of Formula 1’s new engine era as manufacturers continue developing their 2026 power units.
