An unexpected ADUO outcome
Unless there is another last-minute twist, the first round of the FIA’s ADUO assessments is expected to classify Red Bull as the best engine manufacturer at the start of the 2026 Formula 1 season. Ironically, this is perhaps the one ranking that no manufacturer wants to lead, as being identified as the benchmark power unit supplier prevents further performance-related development under the ADUO regulations.
The FIA is currently carrying out an additional review of its data following concerns raised by Red Bull, which was itself surprised by the outcome. However, if the information that emerged during the Monaco Grand Prix weekend is ultimately confirmed, Mercedes – along with Ferrari, Audi and Honda – would be eligible to make further improvements to its power unit.
The situation is particularly surprising because Mercedes power units had long been regarded as the reference point heading into the 2026 regulations. On-track results have largely supported that reputation, with Mercedes-powered cars consistently leading the way in both qualifying sessions and races, including Sprint events.
Whether through Mercedes itself or customer teams using the same power unit, the German manufacturer has regularly occupied the front positions throughout the opening phase of the championship.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli’s honest reaction
World Championship leader Andrea Kimi Antonelli was remarkably candid when asked to comment on what appears to be the FIA’s provisional ADUO verdict.
“To be honest, I don’t know much about the decision. I’m not heavily involved in the subject and I don’t know everything that goes on behind it,” Andrea Kimi Antonelli explained.
The Mercedes driver acknowledged that the most accurate explanation would likely have to come from either the FIA or the team itself, given the complexity of the calculations used in the ADUO process.
“It would obviously be better to ask the team or the FIA according to which parameters all of this is determined, but at least from my perspective I was surprised because I think our power unit is very strong,” he added.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli nevertheless accepted that the FIA must have reasons behind its conclusions and believes the team will now focus on identifying areas where further gains can be achieved.
“There are certainly reasons behind it, and then the team will have to work to understand where we can gain additional performance,” he said.
More performance will take time
While the ADUO framework could potentially provide Mercedes with additional development opportunities, Andrea Kimi Antonelli stressed that extracting more performance from a Formula 1 power unit is never a quick process.
“It’s not going to be a short-term process because finding more performance from the engine takes time,” the Italian driver explained.
Despite the surprising outcome of the FIA’s assessment, Andrea Kimi Antonelli was eager to praise the work already carried out by Mercedes’ engine department.
“The team has certainly already done an incredible job on the power unit, and I’m sure they will put in their maximum effort to extract even more performance now that we can count on this benefit,” he concluded.
The comments reflect the confidence that continues to exist within Mercedes despite the ADUO findings. While the FIA’s calculations may suggest there is room for improvement, the performance shown by Mercedes-powered cars throughout the opening races of the season has convinced many observers – including Andrea Kimi Antonelli himself – that the power unit remains one of the strongest packages on the Formula 1 grid.
With the FIA now reviewing the data following Red Bull’s request, the final outcome of the ADUO process remains uncertain. However, if Mercedes ultimately receives additional development allowances, the championship leaders could gain an opportunity to strengthen an already highly competitive package as the 2026 season progresses.
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