Mattia Binotto anticipates a tough start for Audi's power unit amid new regulations

Audi F1 engine debut in 2026 faces hurdles with power unit performance and compression ratio issues, warns Mattia Binotto.

Audi is set to enter the Formula 1 arena in 2026, not only as a new team but also as a full factory engine supplier after acquiring Sauber. This move coincides with one of the most significant regulatory overhauls in F1 history, introducing lighter and smaller chassis designs and more electrically focused power units with an approximate 50-50 split between electrical and internal combustion components.

Audi F1 engine debut amidst groundbreaking regulation changes

Mattia Binotto, Audi F1 Team principal, openly acknowledges that the Audi power unit will face performance challenges compared to its more experienced competitors in the initial phase of the 2026 season. Established manufacturers such as Mercedes and Honda possess greater experience and organizational stability, which Binotto believes will give them an early advantage.

“If a team or manufacturer was great in the past, it will remain great in the future,” Binotto stated at Audi’s season launch in Berlin. He tempered expectations, saying, “I’m not expecting our powertrain to be the best since the very start. That would be impossible, that would be unrealistic. But I think we are on our journey and we need to stay focused on ourselves.”

Technical hurdles: The compression ratio controversy

One of the major technical issues looming over Audi’s entry is the contentious compression ratio regulation. Recent reports suggest that Mercedes and Red Bull Powertrains might have exploited a loophole by using conrod materials that expand thermally during engine operation, effectively increasing the compression ratio beyond the stipulated limit of 16:1 (reduced from 18:1). This can deliver significant performance gains.

Binotto commented on the situation cautiously, “There are only rumours at the moment that Mercedes may have designed an engine such that the compression ratio can be high and higher in hot conditions – but that’s not me to prove. If it’s real, it is certainly a significant gap in terms of performance and lap time and certainly would make a difference in competition on track.”

Long-term vision and commitment

Despite initial setbacks and potential reliability challenges, Audi is determined to develop into a front-running team. Binotto laid out a clear goal: to become successful and set the benchmark for power units by 2030. He emphasized the importance of learning from problems and progressing consistently race by race.

“We know that we may face problems during the season. We may face reliability issues or failures. But what will count the most for me is the team reacting properly,” Binotto said. “If we are capable of progressing every race, no doubt that with all the means and commitment Audi has, we may become as strong as the others, if not better.”

The challenge of entering an established field

The 2026 season will be a litmus test for Audi’s ability to compete against seasoned F1 manufacturers. The regulatory shakeup levels the playing field in some respects but also rewards experience, which Audi currently lacks. Binotto’s realism about the team’s starting position reveals an understanding of the steep learning curve ahead.

As the Formula 1 world prepares for this landmark season, Audi’s entry adds a fresh dynamic, promising an intense battle shaped by innovation, strategy, and the pursuit of engineering excellence.

Fonte: www.autosport.com

Fonte: Mattia Binotto, Audi F1 Team