Teams and Key Figures Rally for Power Unit Overhaul

Red Bull and McLaren have publicly backed Max Verstappen’s call for hardware changes to the F1 power‑unit package, signalling a united front that could push a 2027‑style overhaul through the FIA.

Why it matters:

• Moves engine design away from chassis compromises, letting teams balance power and aerodynamics.
• Could level the playing field against Mercedes’ current dominance.
• Broad backing from four of five manufacturers plus the FIA would meet the super‑majority threshold needed for a rule change.

The details:

• McLaren boss Andrea Stella said after Miami that “hardware changes should stay on the table for the long term, moving the power‑unit operating point to a less compromised spot for chassis and drivers.”
• Red Bull’s technical team echoes Verstappen, arguing the current spec forces trade‑offs that hurt performance.
• If four of the five power‑unit makers (Mercedes, Ferrari, Renault, Honda) join the FIA and FOM, the vote threshold is easily met.
• The plan targets a phased rollout in 2027, giving manufacturers a year to redesign the turbo, MGU‑K and energy‑store architecture.

What's next:

• The FIA will convene a technical working group within weeks to outline the scope and cost caps of any hardware overhaul.
• A formal proposal is expected at the next F1 summit in early 2025, with a vote likely by the end of the year.