F1 team generate shock with unexpected engine upgrade - report

The first upgrade under the ADUO system was already introduced in Barcelona earlier this month, according to a report.

This year, the FIA has implemented the Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities - or ADUO - system to help engine manufacturers who are behind in the pecking order catch up.

It also intended to ensure that the differences between the power units did not become too great, as was the case for many years at the start of the V6 era. 

However, ADUO has already caused a stir as the FIA deemed Red Bull as the benchmark, although the findings of the opening phase have not yet been made public.

A review of ADUO is already underway by the FIA, as they want to be as precise as possible with the measurements.

But it seems that one manufacturer has already taken advantage of the ADUO findings, as Audi introduced an engine upgrade in Barcelona.

It was communicated on Friday that both Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto had been fitted with new engines for the grand prix weekend, a switch that went largely unnoticed.

However, according to the Italian branch of Motorsport.com, the engines were new and improved, upgraded as part of the ADUO system.

It is news that has surprised many in the paddock, as it seems Audi had prepared well in advance to introduce the upgrade.

In Austria, more teams are set to introduce updates. Ferrari is set to bring an improved engine, while RacingNews365 has also learned that Honda plans to implement some minor changes.