F1 team chiefs endorse FIA ADUO engine upgrade system for 2026

The FIA’s Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities (ADUO) system, introduced to prevent a single manufacturer from dominating the new 2026 power‑unit era, identified Red Bull as the performance benchmark. Teams judged to be behind this benchmark, including Mercedes, Ferrari, Audi and Honda‑powered outfits, will receive extra development allowances focused on internal‑combustion‑engine power.

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff and Audi boss Mattia Binotto publicly supported the ADUO framework, stressing that the assessments are based solely on engine kilowatt output and that the data‑driven process is trustworthy. Wolff warned against adopting a Balance‑of‑Performance model, while Binotto suggested a chassis‑like ranking based on previous‑season standings could further promote field convergence. Both affirmed the system’s role in keeping the competition balanced as the sport transitions to the 2026 regulations.