FIA and FOM urged to be 'tough' as F1 2027 engine split faces political hurdles

The FIA and FOM have been urged to be “tough” in ensuring the proposed 60/40 power unit split for F1 2027 actually goes through, in the face of potential political adversity from manufacturers. A meeting following the Miami Grand Prix resulted in an agreement “in principle” to tweak the electrification ratio, reducing electrical dependency from the current near 50/50 split. But the change still needs formal votes from the Power Unit Advisory Committee and ratification by the World Motor Sport Council, and vested interests could slow things down.

Why it matters:

The current power units have been widely criticized by drivers for being too reliant on electrical energy, making racing less enjoyable and the cars harder to drive. The 60/40 split would restore more combustion power (adding ~50kW) and cut electrical deployment, but even that may not be enough for purists. With Audi reportedly keen to maintain the status quo, the FIA faces a political battle to deliver what most drivers see as a necessary fix.

The details:

• Carlos Sainz called on the FIA and FOM to “be tough with what they believe is the right thing for the sport.” He acknowledged that politics among manufacturers will push back depending on their interests.
• Max Verstappen warned he might leave F1 if the changes aren't made: “If it stays like this, it’s just mentally not doable.” He urged the FIA to be strong.
• Liam Lawson welcomed that drivers are being heard, noting you can't have a series where drivers don't enjoy the cars.
• Nico Hulkenberg was open-minded, saying reducing energy sensitivity is fine, but noted the decision isn't yet finalized.
• Sources indicate Audi is not “wedded” to any specific ratio, though Mattia Binotto has pointed to positive driver feedback on current regs.

What's next:

The 60/40 split won't fully fix F1's driving issues, says Sainz: “for us drivers, that will never be enough.” A true return to combustion-dominant engines isn't expected until 2030. For now, the FIA must navigate politics and voting processes to make the 2027 change a reality, with drivers watching closely.