LONDON (Reuters) - Formula One’s governing body approved engine regulations for 2026, an eagerly-awaited move that could lead to the arrival of premium Volkswagen Group brands Porsche and Audi.
The International Automobile Federation (FIA) said its World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) also updated the 2022 and 2023 technical rules to address safety concerns.
The new power unit will retain the high-revving 1.6 litre V6s but have significantly increased electrical power and use 100% sustainable fuels.
The current Motor Generator Unit Heat (MGU-H) element will be removed, reportedly a pre-requisite for the Volkswagen Group brands to come in.
“The regulations are intended to make it possible and attractive for newcomers to join the sport at a competitive level,” the FIA said.
It added they were the result of a “collaborative consultation between the FIA and both incumbent and potential new PU (power unit) manufacturers.”
Media reports have indicated Porsche is planning to take a 50% stake in Red Bull Technology, the company which builds cars for the current championship leaders.
Red Bull team boss Christian Horner told reporters at last month’s Hungarian Grand Prix there was ‘constructive discussion’ with Porsche but still plenty of caveats and hurdles to overcome.
“The first actual hurdle for any new manufacturer coming in is those technical regulations for the power unit from 2026 onwards,” he said.
Audi have been linked to Sauber, the Swiss-based company that runs the Alfa Romeo team.