The FIA moved quickly to shut down another potential area of exploitation in Formula 1’s sweeping 2026 power unit regulations, underlining the close scrutiny teams face as the new technical rules take shape.
As debate continues over compression ratio issues involving Mercedes and Red Bull, newly updated regulations show that teams had been examining grey areas related to the manipulation of fuel-flow meters.
The governing body has tightened controls on the temperature management of the mandatory Allengra fuel-flow meters that will be used on all cars. Previously, the rules banned only the «intentional» heating or cooling of the device. Following the World Motor Sport Council meeting in December, the wording was expanded to prohibit any device, system or procedure designed to alter the temperature of the fuel-flow meter.
The revised language removes loopholes that could have allowed temperature changes without being deemed deliberate interference.
The change is linked to Formula 1’s switch to fully sustainable fuels in 2026. Under the new rules, the current 100kg-per-hour fuel mass flow limit will be replaced by a 3,000MJ-per-hour energy flow cap.
All teams will use a single standard ultrasonic fuel-flow meter supplied by Allengra, with data shared between the teams and the FIA. Altering the meter’s temperature could, in theory, affect fuel readings or measurement accuracy and deliver a performance benefit.
While the update does not suggest teams were actively exploiting this area, it highlights the FIA’s intent to close off potential loopholes before they can be used.
