FIA pushing for F1 rule change after Bahrain and Saudi Arabia called off - report

The FIA is reportedly contemplating adjustments to the Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities (ADUO) system following the removal of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix.

These races, originally scheduled for April, were called off due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, prompting calls for revised engine-development timelines, according to Motorsport Magazin.

Although neither race has been officially cancelled as yet, and there remains a very slim possibility they will be rescheduled, the Formula 1 calendar is now reduced from 24 to 22 races — at least for now.

However, while power unit allocations remain unchanged, the timing of crucial performance evaluations under the ADUO regulations faces intense scrutiny.

Current regulations establish four observation periods across the season, with internal combustion engine performance assessments every six rounds using a comprehensive Performance Index, a process that evaluates output across various parameters.

Initially, the sixth race evaluation was scheduled for the Miami Grand Prix in early May, which is now the fourth round of the campaign.

But because the two rounds were called off, this pivotal assessment now shifts to the Monaco Grand Prix in early June, causing a significant delay and potential disadvantage for several manufacturers.

The ADUO system operates on a tiered structure based on performance disparities. Manufacturers trailing the leading power unit by over 2% are afforded additional development opportunities, with even greater concessions for those behind by 4% or more.

Covering 84 specific components, regulations typically permit a single update per component annually.

Manufacturers eligible for ADUO assistance receive increased upgrade allowances, more dyno hours, and relaxed budget caps. These concessions apply to the current and next seasons, with the level of escalation increasing as deficits approach 8%.

Mercedes' advantage

Mercedes stands to benefit from the original timeline as their power unit sets the benchmark. In contrast, Ferrari, Audi, and other power unit providers are keen to pursue expedited evaluation opportunities to bolster development potential.

Rival teams face challenges due to longer power unit development cycles than chassis modifications. With engines homologated and development heavily restricted outside the ADUO framework, closing the gap to Mercedes is difficult within the limited timeframe.

But the suggestion that the FIA will likely propose revised assessment deadlines in line with the updated calendar will come as welcome news.

Given Mercedes' position as the sole potentially opposing team, gaining approval appears probable when the proposal reaches the manufacturers.

While engine development timelines may be amended, the team budget cap remains unaffected by race cancellations.

Current rules allocate the full $215 million to "24 or fewer races," with increases required only if the calendar exceeds 24 events.