Red Bull not exploiting the ‘compression ratio trick,’ Dutch media report. Reports from the Netherlands clarify Red Bull's position on the controversial compression ratio "trick" .

Reports from the Netherlands: Red Bull is not utilizing the compression ratio ‘trick’

As Formula 1 begins to put the 2026 challengers through their paces during the Barcelona shakedown, the conversation behind the scenes remains dominated by the controversial issue of engine compression ratios. It has been widely reported that Mercedes has managed to exploit a technical loophole regarding the 16:1 ratio stipulated in the regulations. While the rules—updated in the October technical revision—require this ratio to be measured at room temperature, Mercedes reportedly achieves an 18:1 ratio once the Power Unit is actually running.

The FIA, having been informed well in advance of this development, recently met with engine manufacturers. They have agreed to implement—at an unspecified point in the future—a measurement system capable of verifying this ratio even while the engine is in operation. Despite this, concern is palpable throughout the paddock, particularly among Audi, Ferrari, and Honda, who fear a significant performance deficit.

What about Red Bull?

In recent weeks, various reports suggested that Mercedes wasn’t the only team employing this clever workaround. Rumors pointed toward Red Bull also utilizing the “trick,” allegedly thanks to the influx of high-level engineers recruited directly from the Silver Arrows’ engine department at Brixworth.

However, this narrative has been flatly rejected by Erik van Haren of De Telegraaf, a journalist known for being exceptionally well-connected within the Red Bull camp. “Several media outlets have reported that Red Bull would also use this trick, but insiders have strongly denied it,” Van Haren stated, effectively pouring cold water on the speculation.

For Red Bull, currently developing their first-ever independent Power Unit in partnership with Ford, the stakes couldn’t be higher. While they may not be using the specific compression ratio exploit attributed to Mercedes, the technical battle under the new 2026 regulations is only just beginning to heat up. All eyes remain on the dyno numbers as the manufacturers prepare for a new era of hybrid power.

As the technical battle for 2026 intensifies, the denial from Red Bull insiders suggests a different developmental path for the Milton Keynes-based squad compared to their rivals at Mercedes. While the FIA works to standardize measurement systems for engine compression, the paddock remains on edge, knowing that these early engineering choices could dictate the pecking order for years to come. Whether Red Bull’s traditional approach or Mercedes‘ aggressive interpretation of the rules prevails, the 2026 season is already shaping up to be a masterclass in political and technical maneuvering.