FIA set to review controversial ADUO results over Red Bull protest
The FIA is preparing to re-examine its initial ADUO (Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities) findings after Red Bull raised concerns about the accuracy and fairness of the results. The review comes after preliminary assessments surprisingly identified Red Bull Powertrains as the benchmark engine manufacturer in Formula 1’s new 2026 regulations.
ADUO was introduced to help power unit manufacturers that fall behind their rivals by granting extra development opportunities. The system measures the performance of the internal combustion engine (ICE) and determines which manufacturers qualify for additional upgrades during the season. According to the FIA’s initial analysis, Red Bull’s engine emerged as the strongest, meaning the company would not be eligible for any extra development allowances.
The findings came as a major surprise within the paddock. Red Bull had not expected to be ranked at the top of the performance charts and questioned how the FIA reached its conclusion. Team representatives have since entered discussions with the governing body, seeking greater transparency regarding the evaluation process and the data used to calculate the rankings.
A key point of contention is the fact that the ADUO system focuses solely on the internal combustion engine rather than the complete power unit package. Several teams believe that hybrid components, including battery systems and energy recovery technology, play a significant role in overall performance. Critics argue that evaluating only the combustion engine may not provide a complete picture of a manufacturer’s competitiveness.
If the original rankings stand, manufacturers such as Mercedes could receive additional development opportunities despite already enjoying strong overall performance. This possibility has intensified debate about whether the ADUO mechanism is achieving its intended purpose of helping struggling manufacturers close the gap to the front-runners.
In response to Red Bull’s objections, the FIA has agreed to conduct a fresh review of the data gathered during the opening races of the season. Officials will recheck information collected from power sensors installed on the cars and verify the calculations used to determine engine performance. The governing body wants to ensure the final results are accurate before formally publishing the rankings.
Max Verstappen confirmed that discussions between Red Bull and the FIA are ongoing, with the team seeking clarification on how its power unit was judged to be the best-performing engine on the grid. While Red Bull is not necessarily disputing the data itself, the team wants a clearer understanding of the methodology and whether it accurately reflects competitive reality.
The FIA’s review is expected to provide further clarity on one of the most controversial technical issues of the 2026 season. With additional ADUO assessment points scheduled later in the year, the outcome could have a significant impact on future power unit development and the competitive balance among manufacturers.