Audi test fuels ADUO speculation as Red Bull challenges FIA engine ranking

Audi conducted a brief 15‑km run at its Neuburg facility, testing a power unit that sounded markedly different from its current Formula 1 engine. While the FIA has not confirmed any ADUO (Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities) approval for Audi, the private test has intensified rumours that the German manufacturer could seek upgrades to close its power deficit before the Austrian Grand Prix.

Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies has publicly questioned the FIA’s assessment of engine performance that placed Red Bull‑Ford as the benchmark for the ADUO system. Mekies reaffirmed support for the ADUO principle but demanded further verification of the data used, warning that an unfounded ranking could deny Red Bull development tokens while granting them to rivals such as Mercedes, Ferrari or Honda.