Formula One's key stakeholders have reached an agreement on revised engine regulations for the 2027 and 2028 seasons, aiming to address widespread driver dissatisfaction with the current power unit formula. The changes come after persistent criticism from four-time world champion Max Verstappen, who had threatened to leave the sport over the rules he described as 'anti-racing'.
The current engines operate with a 53-47 split between the internal combustion engine (ICE) and electrical energy, leading to excessive energy management that many drivers find frustrating and potentially unsafe due to closing speeds. A proposal in May to shift the split to 60-40 in favour of the ICE was agreed in principle but faced objections from Audi and Ferrari over implementation as early as 2026.
Under the compromise, the power delivery split will be set at 58-42 for 2027, accompanied by a 5% increase in fuel flow, raising the ICE's maximum output from 400kW to 420kW. In 2028, the split will reach 60-40 with a 13% fuel flow increase, boosting ICE output to 450kW. This incremental approach aims to address driver concerns without requiring major hardware changes to power units, which manufacturers like Audi have heavily invested in.
Verstappen had stated that a 60-40 split was the 'bare minimum' he would accept, and the 2027 figure falls short of that threshold. He is expected to share his verdict on Thursday ahead of the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix. The FIA has noted it will expedite the formal approval process, with proposals subject to final approval by the World Motor Sport Council on 23 June in Macau.
