Ferrari's Vasseur: ADUO System Timing Sticking Point Remains Unresolved

Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur has clarified that the FIA's Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities (ADUO) system is mostly settled, with one key ambiguity: the definition of "race six."

The ADUO system is designed to allow power unit manufacturers lagging behind the benchmark to bring performance-related engine upgrades—normally forbidden under homologation. The benchmark is currently Mercedes' HPP unit.

Why it matters:

This system could reshape the competitive balance in F1's engine war. If executed correctly, it gives struggling manufacturers like Ferrari or Red Bull Powertrains a chance to close the gap without starting from scratch. But the timing ambiguity threatens to delay its implementation, potentially impacting development cycles.

The details:

• How it works: Manufacturers within 2% of the benchmark ICE performance get one upgrade this season and another in 2027. Those 4% or more behind get two opportunities per season.
• The sticking point: The technical regulations state ADUO comes into force after round six. However, the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix shifted the calendar. Was round six originally the Miami GP, or is it now the Monaco GP in June?
• Vasseur's view: "The situation is crystal clear... except perhaps is it race six of the initial calendar or race six of the new calendar?" He added that the mechanisms and parameters are well-defined and trusts the FIA to provide numbers soon.
• Mercedes' concern: Toto Wolff has warned the system could allow one manufacturer to leapfrog others, but he remains supportive.

What's next:

Vasseur expects the FIA to clarify the race-six definition shortly. Once resolved, manufacturers can begin utilizing their allocated dyno hours and upgrade opportunities. The outcome will be closely watched as teams prepare for 2026's major regulation change.