Red Bull F1 team protests FIA ADUO engine evaluation, warns of impact through 2028

Red Bull Racing has formally objected to the FIA's ADUO engine‑performance evaluation, arguing that the decision excludes the team from the development‑boost measures applied to other manufacturers. The team’s representative, Roland Mekies, said the ruling could affect Red Bull’s competitiveness not only in the 2026 season but also in 2027 and 2028. FIA officials state that the ADUO system relies on data from a standardized torque sensor installed on all power units, aiming to provide an objective measure and to avoid a permanent disadvantage for manufacturers that are late to develop internal‑combustion engines. The FIA’s director Nicolas Tonbazys explained that the rule was designed to keep the sport balanced and to prevent manufacturers from withdrawing. Other teams such as Mercedes, Ferrari, Audi and Honda are currently eligible for the ADUO‑related performance gains.