The 2026 Formula 1 season has not yet begun, but the FIA is already working hard to close loopholes in the new regulations. It was previously reported that Mercedes and Red Bull Powertrains had allegedly found a loophole to apply a ‘trick’ to the compression ratio of their engines. The next ‘loophole’ however, is said to involve the fuel-flow meter.
Last Friday, it was revealed that two engine manufacturers, presumably Mercedes and Red Bull Powertrains, have applied a ‘trick’ to the compression ratio of their power units. According to multiple sources in the paddock, the manufacturers have found a way to get the compression ratio to 18:1, instead of the allowed 16:1. This would not violate the technical regulations and is rumored to yield a three-tenths time gain.
Fuel-Flow Meter
However, this is not the only loophole the FIA has to deal with. The governing body now hopes to stay one step ahead of the teams and manufacturers, and is already adjusting the regulations. The issue at hand is potential tampering with the fuel-flow meter. In 2026, Formula 1 will fully transition to sustainable fuels. During the previous regulation cycle, the maximum mass flow was still 100 kg/h, but in 2026, the fuel energy flow limit will be 3000 MJ/h.
Previously, the premier class used two different fuel meters – one for the teams and one for the FIA for control – but now a standard unit, produced by Allengra, is used. This is installed in all cars, and the data is available to both the teams and the FIA. Potential tampering could occur if teams try to influence the temperature of the fuel flow meter. The composition of the measured fuel could change, or the readings of the device could potentially be manipulated.
Regulation Adjustment
The FIA, however, is one step ahead of the teams this time and has already adjusted the wording of the technical regulations last October. Previously, it stated that ‘any deliberate heating or cooling of the fuel meter is prohibited’, but the FIA has now adjusted this. “Any device, system or procedure whose purpose is to change the temperature of the fuel flow meter is prohibited,” the regulation now reads.
