Audi Calls for F1 Regulation Stability After Max Verstappen Setback

Audi calls for regulatory stability and opposes shifting Formula 1’s 2026 power unit split to 60/40, complicating Max Verstappen’s condition for continuing in the series.

The current plan targets near parity between electric and combustion output. Moving to a 60/40 split would increase the internal combustion share and force significant development rebalancing.

Any revision needs support from at least four of the five manufacturers. With Ferrari and Cadillac expressing reservations, consensus for a 2026 change looks uncertain.

Audi CEO Gernot Döllner stresses stability and strict cost control under the cost cap, preferring incremental adjustments over late rewrites that could disrupt new programmes.

That position reflects Audi’s desire to build performance and reliability methodically, avoiding expensive pivots that risk undermining early development gains.

Max Verstappen has pushed for moving the power unit split to 60/40, describing it as the minimum step for him to remain in Formula 1.

Audi’s resistance strengthens the argument for a measured rollout, deferring major shifts while the wider 2026 regulations bed in.

Döllner is confident negotiations with rival manufacturers are progressing and that a workable solution will emerge without jeopardising cost discipline.

Paddock expectations point to an effective framework by 2027, giving teams clearer planning horizons before committing to hardware and software directions.

Audi’s messaging on predictability mirrors its broader positioning this year, visible alongside its recent Monaco GP livery push and ongoing integration efforts.

As 2026 nears, the final balance between electrical deployment and combustion will shape drivability, strategy, and investment priorities across the grid.

Until agreement is reached, teams manage uncertainty, while Audi argues that regulatory stability best protects competitiveness and the spectacle in F1’s next era.

Visual Summary

Verstappen

60/40 ⚡

Audi

Stability ?


Ferrari/Cadillac

Daniel Miller

Daniel Miller reports on Formula 1 Grand Prix weekends with race-day analysis, team-radio highlights, and point-standings updates. He explains power-unit upgrades, aerodynamic developments, and driver rivalries in straightforward, SEO-friendly language for a global F1 audience.